MapQuest will not go gentle into that good night.
The navigation software — which debuted in 1996 and was later eclipsed by competitor Google Maps — is currying favor with new users by taking a hard line against Flock cameras.
Users can now track nearby Flock cameras and other surveillance systems using the platform’s new Surveillance Layer, released yesterday to its mobile app. The layer includes location data for automatic license plate readers (APLRs) and other public cameras from almost a dozen companies: Flock, Motorola Solutions (Vigilant), Genetec, Axis Communications, Axon, Leonardo (ELSAG), Neology, Rekor, PlateSmart, Ubicquia, and Verkada.
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According to MapQuest’s terms, the data is sourced from Open Street Map contributors. Open Street Map is an open source, community-created mapping database.
Flock CEO says it won’t work with clients who abuse its surveillance, but claims none have
Crowdsourced Flock maps have risen in popularity over the last year as communities fight back against the “public security” company. A nationwide backlash to ALPRs has resulted in intense scrutiny on Flock, including a recent Senate inquiry. Flock’s CEO has doubled down on the company’s partnerships with law enforcement and city governments, recently stating that only a small number of bad actors have abused its technology.
MapQuest shows nearby license plate readers as well as general surveillance cameras.
Credit: MapQuest
Credit: MapQuest
Flock partners have faced multiple accusations of misusing the surveillance system to stalk, harass, and profile individuals.
MapQuest saw an influx of new users in September, after the website announced it wouldn’t honor President Donald Trump’s executive order to rename Lake Ontario to “Lake America.” Last year, the platform also debuted a customizable map feature that let users rename the Gulf of Mexico, following the Trump administration’s announcement it was changing the geographical area’s name to “Gulf of America.”
How to turn on MapQuest’s surveillance layer
Step 1:
Download the MapQuest App.
Step 2:
Tap the “layers” icon on the bottom right corner of the map.
Step 3:
Toggle on “Surveillance.”
Step 4:
Look for the “eyes” to spot nearby surveillance cameras.
Credit: MapQuest
Credit: MapQuest
