The battle against mass surveillance is intensifying as privacy advocates and organizations like the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) confront powerful tech companies deploying invasive tools. One such tool, automated license plate readers (ALPRs), has sparked widespread concern due to its ability to track vehicles across the country, creating vast databases of location data. This article explores the fight to expose and regulate ALPRs, the role of grassroots activism, and the legal challenges faced by those who dare to challenge surveillance technologies.
The Rise of Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs)
ALPRs are cameras that automatically scan and record license plate numbers, often in real time. These systems are used by law enforcement agencies to track vehicles, but their data is frequently stored for years, creating a detailed map of individuals’ movements. According to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), over 700 law enforcement agencies in the U.S. Use ALPRs, with some databases containing billions of records [1].
While proponents argue that ALPRs aid in solving crimes, critics warn that the technology enables widespread, unchecked surveillance. The lack of transparency and accountability surrounding ALPR data collection has led to calls for stricter regulations, with many advocating for a ban on the use of such systems by law enforcement.
Grassroots Activism in the Fight for Privacy
Will Freeman, a digital rights advocate, became a focal point in the fight against ALPRs when he created DeFlock.me, a website that crowdsources information about the locations of ALPR cameras. The project aimed to empower the public by revealing the extent of surveillance infrastructure and encouraging civic engagement. However, Freeman’s efforts drew the ire of Flock Safety, a company that provides ALPR technology to law enforcement agencies.
In 2025, Flock Safety sent a cease-and-desist letter to Freeman, alleging trademark violations and attempting to shut down DeFlock.me. The company’s legal threats were seen as an attempt to silence criticism and suppress public awareness of its surveillance tools. Freeman described the experience as “intimidating,” noting that most individuals would “be bullied into submission by a threat like that” [2].
The Role of the EFF in Protecting Digital Rights
The EFF stepped in to support Freeman, recognizing DeFlock.me as a form of protected speech under the First Amendment. The organization’s legal team argued that the website’s purpose—exposing the dangers of mass surveillance—was a legitimate exercise of free expression. Their intervention highlighted the broader struggle between corporate interests and the right to privacy, with the EFF emphasizing that “free speech should not be a privilege reserved for those wealthy enough to defend it” [3].
Following the EFF’s support, Flock Safety reportedly retreated, though the company has continued to defend its technology. The case underscores the importance of organizations like the EFF in holding powerful entities accountable and ensuring that digital rights are protected in the face of growing surveillance capabilities.
Public Pressure and the Future of ALPR Regulation
Public opposition to ALPRs is growing, with cities and states across the U.S. Taking steps to limit their use. In 2023, several municipalities, including Portland, Oregon, and Santa Clara, California, banned or restricted ALPR systems, citing privacy concerns and the risk of misuse [4]. These efforts have been bolstered by grassroots campaigns that emphasize the need for transparency and oversight.
Despite these victories, the fight is far from over. Flock Safety and other surveillance tech companies continue to lobby for the expansion of ALPR programs, often framing them as essential tools for public safety. Privacy advocates argue that the risks of mass surveillance outweigh any potential benefits, calling for a shift toward community-driven solutions that prioritize civil liberties.
How You Can Get Involved
The struggle against mass surveillance requires collective action. Individuals can support organizations like the EFF by donating, volunteering, or participating in advocacy campaigns. For those interested in combating ALPRs, joining local efforts to regulate surveillance technology or supporting legislation that limits its use can make a significant difference.
As Will Freeman’s story demonstrates, the fight for digital rights is both challenging and essential. With the right tools and support, citizens can hold powerful corporations and governments accountable, ensuring that technology serves the public fine rather than eroding fundamental freedoms.
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