Flock ALPR Cameras: High-Value Batteries Spark Theft Concerns Amid Privacy Backlash

A tip circulating on deflock.org highlights that batteries in Flock Safety license plate reader (ALPR) cameras are worth approximately $300 and lack robust physical security, potentially inviting theft by opportunists. While the exact $300 figure appears approximate, official Flock documentation lists replacement battery packs at $750, with additional packs priced at $1,500, underscoring their substantial value and the presence of large lithium-ion units (e.g., 10.8V, 19Ah models documented in hardware teardowns). Reddit discussions in scrap metal communities note hidden backup batteries alongside copper, gold, and aluminum components, fueling speculation about scrap resale potential. Real-world incidents include theft attempts captured on the cameras themselves, with GPS enabling recovery, as reported by police departments. This vulnerability intersects with broader debates: Flock systems, deployed in tens of thousands of locations, face scrutiny from the ACLU over warrantless tracking and data sharing, while misreads have led to wrongful accusations. Communities are organizing via deflock.org maps to challenge installations, raising questions about whether inadequate hardware security exacerbates both physical risks and civil liberties concerns.