Proton hosts public surveillance map identifying over 300000 Flock cameras

Privacy technology company Proton AG is now hosting an online map that reveals the location of more than 300,000 Flock surveillance devices, according to reports from Tom's Hardware, Gadget Review, and news.lavx.hu. The map relies on publicly available information that security researcher Joshua Michael compiled. Tom's Hardware reported that Proton stepped in to host the system after Flock Surveillance issued cease-and-desist threats against the creator. [1][3][4]

The hosted project serves as a backup copy of the original surveillance tracking tool created by Michael, Tom's Hardware reported. PPC Land reported that data from the platform shows 214,073 active Flock devices currently operating in service, despite previous estimates suggesting a total closer to 120,000 devices. [1][5]

Mashable and Gadget Review both report that the public database allows users to locate automated surveillance devices in their immediate areas. Tom's Hardware noted that the underlying data collection involves information already present in the public domain rather than stolen proprietary materials, making legal actions against the creator or the hosting provider difficult. [1][2][3]

The decision by Proton to host the mapping project directly defies the legal demands from Flock, according to Tom's Hardware and news.lavx.hu. Tom's Hardware reported that because Proton is an independent third party hosting public domain data, the company is further removed from potential legal liability regarding the dispute. [1][4]