Ring Cancels Flock Safety Deal Following Super Bowl Ad Controversy

Ring has recently canceled its partnership with Flock Safety following backlash over privacy concerns. This decision comes after public disappointment regarding the integration of Flock’s license plate reader technology with Ring’s network of security cameras.

Details of the Flock Safety Deal Cancellation

In a statement first highlighted by The Verge, Ring disclosed that after a detailed review, it recognized that the integration would need significantly more resources than originally planned. The spokesperson emphasized that no customer videos from Ring were ever sent to Flock Safety as the integration never launched.

Public Reaction to Super Bowl Ad

The cancellation followed a Super Bowl advertisement promoting Ring’s new Search Party feature, which utilizes artificial intelligence to assist families in locating lost pets. This led to widespread skepticism, with many questioning if the technology could also be employed for tracking individuals.

Concerns Over Surveillance

Owned by Amazon since 2018, Ring has faced criticism from privacy advocates for its collaborations with law enforcement. Previously, the company’s Neighbors app allowed authorities to access surveillance footage from users’ cameras without judicial oversight, such as warrants. This feature was removed in early 2024 due to backlash.

Flock Safety’s Controversial Practices

Flock Safety has drawn criticism for its extensive surveillance capabilities. Reports indicate that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has used Flock’s network to facilitate its immigration enforcement efforts. This has raised concerns among lawmakers and the public alike.

Broader Implications for Privacy and Security

As discussions over privacy continue, recent actions by lawmakers highlight growing apprehensions regarding facial recognition technology. Democratic representatives have urged ICE to abandon its facial recognition practices, reflecting a broader unease about surveillance technologies in society.

Ring’s decision to retract its collaboration with Flock Safety reinforces the ongoing dialogue about privacy rights and the ethical implications of surveillance systems in America.