Key facts
- A Grand Theft Auto V mod adds 235 simulated Flock surveillance cameras to Los Santos.
- The cameras track players and report in-game offenses to police.
- Players can destroy the simulated Flock cameras.
- Modder WTTDOTM created the 'Grand Theft Automated License Plate Reader' mod.
- Flock Safety's technology records vehicle plates and identifying details for law enforcement.
- Concerns exist about police misuse of Flock data and privacy.
- Texas Governor Greg Abbott ordered state agencies to stop funding Flock cameras.
A mod for Grand Theft Auto V, created by WTTDOTM and named 'Grand Theft Automated License Plate Reader,' has introduced 235 simulated Flock surveillance cameras into the game's environment. These cameras function by tracking players and reporting in-game offenses to the in-game police. Players also have the ability to destroy these simulated cameras. The modder, WTTDOTM, expressed criticism of Flock's real-world surveillance technology, calling it a "scourge on America" in a promotional video. Flock Safety's automated license plate readers are designed to record vehicle plates and identifying details, which law enforcement can use to investigate crimes and locate individuals. However, critics raise concerns about potential misuse of this data by police and broader privacy implications. These concerns have reached the US Congress, with discussions focusing on tracking individuals not suspected of crimes, data retention policies, and oversight of law enforcement. A Washington Post investigation found at least 69 police officials accused, charged, or convicted of misusing Flock or similar license plate readers. In response to these concerns, Texas Governor Greg Abbott directed state agencies to cease funding for Flock cameras. Flock CEO Garrett Langley has defended the technology, advocating for a balance between public safety and privacy, and suggesting regulations for data retention and officer accountability. This mod joins a history of player-created modifications in popular games, such as the 'Metro System' mod for Cyberpunk 2077, which was later incorporated into the official game by CD Projekt Red.