Policy · 2h ago
Flock Safety Drops Audio Distress Detection After Privacy Backlash
Flock Safety ended a pilot for its audio distress detection feature, which used microphones to listen for human screams. The EFF had warned the feature posed civil liberties risks and could violate state eavesdropping laws. Flock cited community consultation as reason for removal, but its gunshot detection microphones remain in use.
Meridian48 take
The retreat is a win for privacy advocates, but Flock's core acoustic gunshot detection—known for inaccuracies and real-world harm—still warrants scrutiny.
Read the full reporting
Victory! Flock Ends Rollout of Audio “Distress Detection” of Human Voices →
EFF
surveillanceprivacy