GoKawiilMapQuest adds layer showing license plate reader locations
MapQuest launched a new 'Surveillance' layer this week that marks the locations of automatic license plate readers from Flock Safety, Motorola Solutions, Genetec, Axon and several other manufacturers. Users can enable it via the app's Layers menu, and tapping a marker reveals the camera type and exact coordinates. The company has not disclosed how it sources this location data.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The feature puts MapQuest alongside apps like DeFlock and FlockHopper that already track surveillance cameras, suggesting growing public interest in monitoring license plate reader networks amid privacy concerns. It also marks another move by MapQuest to regain relevance against larger rivals like Google Maps and Waze, following its recent push into Android Auto and its refusal to rename Lake Ontario.
- MapQuest's new Surveillance layer shows license plate reader locations from a dozen-plus companies including Flock and Axon.
- Users activate it through the app's Layers menu, with tapped icons revealing reader type and coordinates.
- MapQuest hasn't explained its data source, and similar crowdsourced tracking apps already exist.
Source: cnet.com — Alex Valdes, 2026-10-16
Published there as: “MapQuest App Shows You Where License Plate Readers Are in Your Area”
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