WIRED Maps 1,181 License Plate Readers Near US World Cup Stadiums
Original: Mapping Every Flock License Plate Reader Near US World Cup Stadiums
Why This Matters
Highlights expanding surveillance infrastructure impact on privacy during major events
WIRED identified 1,181 automatic license plate reader cameras within five miles of 11 US World Cup stadiums, mostly manufactured by Flock Safety. These ALPRs continuously log license plates and vehicle data, with operators able to share information across networks.
WIRED's investigation found extensive surveillance infrastructure around US World Cup venues, with 1,181 ALPRs from companies like Flock Safety positioned within five-mile radii of stadiums. These cameras, deployed by municipalities and private groups, continuously capture license plates and vehicle details including make, model, and bumper stickers. Flock Safety allows data sharing between operators, potentially creating national tracking networks. The company's spokesperson Paris Lewbel stated customers control their own data and sharing decisions. Privacy concerns include reported police abuse for stalking and unauthorized government access. In 2025, US Customs and Border Protection allegedly violated Illinois state law accessing Flock data.