City of Taylor Ends Contract With Flock Safety Over Data Security Concerns

The City of Taylor has ended its contract with Flock Safety, a move driven by concerns over the company's data security practices. This decision comes as the city expresses its disappointment with the effectiveness of Flock Safety’s systems in safeguarding sensitive information ¹²³.

Taylor’s contract with Flock Safety, which began in late 2023, involved the installation of eight license plate readers along Highway 79 and Highway 95. These devices were intended to enhance public safety by providing real-time data to the police department. However, the Taylor Police Department reported that the use of these cameras did not yield the anticipated benefits in crime-solving efforts ¹³.

As a result of this perceived underperformance and a general loss of confidence in the Flock Safety program, the city has decided to terminate the contract. The eight cameras, which have already been deactivated, will be removed from their locations within the next few days ¹³.

This development highlights the ongoing scrutiny faced by technology providers in the realm of public safety, where both the functionality and security of their products are critical factors for municipal contracts ¹³.

What we know

• The City of Taylor terminated its contract with Flock Safety ¹²³
• The city expressed dissatisfaction with Flock Safety’s data security measures ¹³
• Eight cameras will be removed shortly after being disabled ¹³
• Taylor had a contract with Flock Safety for eight license plate readers since late 2023 ¹
• The Taylor Police Department found the use of Flock cameras to be less effective than expected in solving crimes ¹
• The decision to terminate the contract was influenced by a loss of confidence in the Flock Safety program and its perceived lack of benefit to the community ¹