Local governments across the United States, from Florida to Washington state, are ending their contracts with Flock, a company known for using artificial intelligence-powered license plate readers. This move comes in response to growing public concern over privacy and surveillance. However, canceling these contracts does not automatically mean the cameras will be removed or that the data they have collected will be erased quickly. The decision to terminate these agreements reflects a broader debate about the balance between public safety and individual privacy. Many communities have raised concerns about the potential misuse of data collected by these systems, which can track vehicles and their movements in real time. Some argue that such technology can help law enforcement, while others warn of the risks of mass surveillance and data breaches. Protesters highlighted these concerns during a demonstration outside the G20 Innovation Ministerial in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, on September 2, 2026. They held banners opposing Flock’s security cameras, calling for greater transparency and accountability. The event underscored the public’s unease with the expanding role of private companies in monitoring public spaces. Despite the move by several governments to limit their use of Flock’s technology, questions remain about what the company will do with the data it has already gathered. While each contract with local authorities is unique, many allow Flock to retain information for extended periods. This has raised concerns about long-term data storage and the potential for misuse, even after the contracts are terminated.