Flock Surveillance Tech CEO Addresses Law Enforcement Tool Abuse with Mandatory Audit Features
Surveillance technology company Flock is implementing significant policy changes following reports that law enforcement personnel across the country abused its tools to stalk ex-romantic partners and others.
In an interview with The Verge, CEO Garrett Langley delivered a public acknowledgment of responsibility, stating the company has reconsidered the extent of its obligations regarding how law enforcement agencies use its products. The company had previously maintained that customer misuse fell outside its purview.
The upcoming updates include making Audit Assistance—a feature that was previously optional—a mandatory requirement for all users. This tool is designed to flag what the company describes as "abnormal search behavior" and automatically locks out suspicious users until an administrator reviews their activity.
Additionally, all users will be required to complete new verification steps, though the specific requirements were not detailed in available reports.
The changes represent a notable shift in how Flock positions itself regarding the practical application of its surveillance technology by law enforcement agencies.