Flock tests AI tool that identifies drivers by behaviour patterns

Flock is currently testing an artificial intelligence tool named OS Investigate, formerly known as Nightshift, which identifies individuals based on their driving patterns rather than relying solely on automated licence plate recognition. The software utilises a network of cameras across 6,000 communities to log driver movements and cross-references this data with police case files, 911 dispatch logs, and commercial identity records. This capability allows the system to locate witnesses or suspects by analysing vehicle movements in specific areas.

The tool features a chatbot component that enables law enforcement officers to input prompts for broad searches based on location, time, and behaviour patterns. Notably, officers do not need to provide a specific crime report or a licence plate number to initiate a search. Wired reports that the system can search for people in a mapped area based on a physical description of driving behaviour, effectively allowing the algorithm to identify potential subjects without a prior incident.

Flock states that it is testing the product with specific law enforcement partners and that current capabilities may not reflect the final commercial version. The company has not disputed the reported capabilities but clarifies that OS Investigate is a separate product from its standard licence plate reader technology. This distinction comes as Flock has historically marketed itself as an automated licence plate reader company, despite evidence suggesting its cameras track more extensive data.

Critics have raised significant concerns about the tool’s potential for misuse. Noel Pichardo, a former police officer who reviewed the software for Wired, described the technology as "completely insane" and stated that it is difficult to argue against the notion that Flock literally tracks people. Chad Marlow, an attorney with the ACLU, warned that the lack of limitations on search prompts could allow officers to "fish" for criminal patterns, effectively leading the AI to produce results that fit a desired narrative.

The controversy surrounding Flock is not new, with previous reports alleging that police officers have misused the company’s technology to spy on individuals or stalk ex-partners. These incidents led Flock to implement safeguards such as user lockouts and mandatory case codes for searches. However, it remains unclear what protections will be in place for the new beta software. A Massachusetts police officer is currently facing possible dismissal and charges for allegedly misusing Flock camera information, while an Ohio community has called for a pause in the use of Flock surveillance systems.

Public backlash against Flock has intensified in recent years, with several law enforcement agencies severing ties with the company due to privacy concerns. In some US communities, citizens have vandalised, destroyed, or stolen Flock cameras. One Minnesota town reported that all of its Flock cameras had disappeared overnight, and its police department has stated it will not replace them.