How the American revolt against Flock cameras mirrors the Boston Tea Party of 1773

The bipartisan revolution against automated license plate readers suggests Americans have not entirely lost their rebellious spirit.

By: G. Patrick O'Brien, University of Tampa, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: September 16, 2026

Words: 1,218

Last Updated: 1 month ago

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By G. Patrick O'Brien, University of Tampa

A grassroots revolt against automated license plate readers, or ALPRs, has gained momentum across the United States.

ALPRs are AI-powered cameras that capture images of all passing vehicles. The camera systems turn details into datapoints searchable by anyone with access to the information.

Today, there are more than 130,000 ALPRs on U.S. streets. And more than 5,000 law enforcement agencies use cameras produced by a …

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