The High Crime of “LMAO”: How Cops Are Treating Mass Surveillance As a Joke
Summary
An analysis of Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) search logs from Flock Safety systems reveals that law enforcement officers are frequently searching the database for nonsensical or unverified reasons, such as "LOL," "LMAO," and "sexy." This practice undermines civil liberties by allowing unrestricted access to sensitive location data, despite claims of improved audit processes.
IFF Assessment
This article highlights a concerning trend of law enforcement abusing mass surveillance technology, specifically ALPRs, for arbitrary searches, which is detrimental to individual privacy and civil liberties.
Defender Context
This article serves as a stark reminder of the privacy risks associated with widespread surveillance technologies like ALPRs. Defenders should be aware of how these systems can be misused and advocate for stronger oversight, stricter data access policies, and mandatory warrant requirements to prevent unauthorized surveillance and protect individual privacy.