FBI seeks access to license plate cameras across the US, wants data in near real time

The FBI intelligence division is seeking a contractor for near-real-time access to a large license plate reader camera network.

The plan would expand on existing data sharing, but access is limited by company settings and state privacy laws.

Flock Safety says federal sharing is opt-in for local agencies, while California and Virginia restrict some data sharing.

The move could broaden surveillance and raise privacy, legal compliance, and local control concerns.