Science & Tech · Big Tech & Internet · 2 hrs ago
MapQuest Adds a Map Layer Showing License Plate Reader Locations
MapQuest has added a map layer showing known surveillance cameras and license plate readers in the United States.
The feature includes devices from Flock and several other camera companies.
Users can turn on the Surveillance layer in the app to see camera locations marked on the map.
Tapping a marker can show the device type and its coordinates, though the app does not identify the company that owns each camera.
License plate readers can record a vehicle’s plate, make, model, color and location.
Civil liberties groups warn the data can enable broad tracking, while the devices are also used for tasks such as toll collection and parking enforcement.
The feature may help people see how widespread cameras are in their area, including those seeking to remove them from their neighborhoods.
MapQuest has added a map layer showing known outdoor surveillance cameras and automatic license plate readers.
The layer includes devices from Flock and several other companies.
Users can turn it on through the app’s Layers menu by selecting the Surveillance option.
Selecting a camera marker can show its type and exact coordinates.
MapQuest did not say how it identifies camera locations.
- Who
- MapQuest added the feature to its app.
- What
- A Surveillance map layer shows known outdoor cameras and license plate readers.
- When
- The feature was added this week, according to CNET; the articles were published on October 16, 2026.
- Where
- In the MapQuest app, showing camera locations in users’ areas and beyond.
- Why
- MapQuest did not state its reason for adding the feature. Engadget said the information may help people seeking to remove surveillance cameras from their neighborhoods.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
MapQuest added a Surveillance layer showing known outdoor cameras and license plate readers.
CNET and Engadget published articles about the new feature.
- MapQuest layer
- Surveillance
- Camera types
- Dome, fixed and pan/tilt
- Companies listed
- Flock, Motorola Solutions (Vigilant), Genetec, Axis Communications, Axon, Leonardo (ELSAG), Neology, Rekor, PlateSmart, Ubicquia and Verkada
- Activation
- Open Layers in the app and turn on Surveillance
- Published
- October 16, 2026
2 sources
What people are saying
But at least now I know which streets have eyes on me.
Chef's kiss, no notes.