Flock Safety has launched a voluntary exit program with severance pay amid growing criticism of its license plate recognition systems and loss of clients. The application period began on September 18 and will last until October 2. An internal company memo indicates that most applications are likely to be approved. Participants in the program will be able to receive what is considered the "most generous" severance package in Flock Safety's history.
According to WIRED, some employees received offers of tens of thousands of dollars as severance, as well as several months of health insurance. Additionally, departing employees will be offered the right to sell company shares for two years after leaving. Such generosity raises suspicions that the program is linked to business reshuffles and growing criticism after several major contracts were terminated due to concerns about privacy and potential abuses by law enforcement.
Launched in 2017, the project has faced a wave of negativity from American citizens due to privacy threats. According to the civil rights group Bay Area, in August, 93 city and county authorities terminated contracts with Flock Safety. This leads to increased internal costs for the company, including vandalism against installed surveillance cameras. Some employees are likely to accept the exit offer amid discussions of a potential sale of part or all of the company. In this context, Flock Safety CEO Garrett Langley called for a "compromise" between privacy and security at the end of summer, indicating that the company is aware of the growing dissatisfaction with its practices and is trying to adapt to new market conditions.
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