FIU students react to Flock camera ban (includes video story)

Florida International University students are reacting to a Department of Transportation order issued last Monday requiring Flock cameras to be removed from state highways within 30 days. 'It's not just the information that you have, but also being surveilled by a camera,' said Gabriel Gonzalez, an FIU student. 'You feel like you're being watched because that's literally what technology is doing.' The order comes amid growing backlash over privacy concerns and reports of camera misuse. While the ban removes Flock cameras from state highways, it allows them to remain on private property and local rights-of-way. At FIU, a largely commuter-based university, the cameras are particularly relevant to students who rely on local roads to travel to and from campus. While some students said they would like to see the ban extended to local roads, others believe the technology can be useful if it is properly managed and safeguards are put in place to prevent misuse. 'I feel like on roads it's okay to help observe traffic,' said Dana, another FIU student. 'The main concern is just privacy because they are always recording you. But at the same time, they are used for some positive things.' Flock Safety, the company behind the cameras, pushed back against the state's decision, saying the technology plays an important role in public safety and law enforcement. 'Flock's technology is an important public safety tool for law enforcement agencies across Florida, helping officers solve serious crimes, find missing people, recover stolen vehicles, and support safer communities,' Flock Safety said in a statement.