The company launched a “Surveillance Layer” that lets users locate automated license plate readers as they travel.
Illustration: Inc.; Photos: Adobe Stock
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MapQuest launched a new feature last week that allows users to locate automated license plate readers and outdoor surveillance cameras along their route.
The free digital navigation service announced on BlueSky its new “Surveillance Layer” that identifies cameras developed by Flock Safety, Motorola Solutions, Genetec and other surveillance tech companies.
In another BlueSky post, MapQuest shared a video showing users how to access the surveillance layer. After updating to the latest version of MapQuest’s app, users can tap Map Layers and toggle on Surveillance. Eyes populate the map wherever a known camera is located. By clicking on an eye, users can see details about the surveillance camera.
At the end of the video, the company emphasized its message that “The Roads Have Eyes.”
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MapQuest’s General Manager Doug Berger told Business Insider that drivers using the service inspired the new feature. “We build around what drivers ask for, and showing surveillance camera locations is one of our users’ top three requests,” Berger said in a statement.
Public scrutiny over mass surveillance
Public backlash against mass surveillance technology surged following multiple incidents of automated license plate readers (ALPRs) being misused.
ALPRs automatically capture images or videos of passing vehicles. The camera system detects and reads the license plate captured and gathers additional information including vehicle type and color, global positioning system (GPS) location data, and date and time.