Drones Once Reserved for Police Now Sold to Private Security Companies

The Download: Shoplifter-Chasing Drones, and Trump's TikTok Deal In a move that has raised concerns about privacy and surveillance, Flock Safety, a company that once provided drones exclusively to police departments, is now offering them for private-sector security. The expansion into commercial use comes as businesses seek innovative ways to combat shoplifting, with potential customers including retailers and other establishments plagued by theft. According to Keith Kauffman, a former police chief who directs Flock's drone program, the technology allows security teams to activate camera-equipped drones that can track individuals suspected of shoplifting. If the suspects flee in a vehicle, the drone can be used to follow them, providing real-time video feed to the company's security team or automatically transmitting it to local law enforcement. Flock Safety's decision to expand into private-sector security is seen as a logical step by some industry experts. However, Rebecca Williams, senior strategist for the American Civil Liberties Union's (ACLU) privacy and data governance unit, expressed concerns about the potential for abuse. "This expansion is in the wrong direction," she said. "We need to be careful not to create a surveillance state where private companies are using technology to monitor and track individuals without adequate oversight or transparency." The use of drones for shoplifting prevention is not new, but Flock Safety's move into commercial sales marks a significant shift in the market. The company has already seen interest from potential customers, including retailers looking to curb losses due to theft. Shoplifting costs American businesses an estimated $30 billion annually, with many retailers turning to innovative solutions to combat the problem. Drones equipped with cameras and sensors can provide real-time intelligence on shoplifters, allowing security teams to respond quickly and effectively. Flock Safety's expansion into private-sector security has sparked debate about the role of technology in surveillance and law enforcement. While some see drones as a valuable tool for preventing crime, others worry about the potential for misuse or overreach. As Flock Safety continues to market its drone technology to commercial customers, it remains to be seen how this new development will impact the use of surveillance technology in private security. With concerns about privacy and data governance on the rise, one thing is clear: the use of drones in shoplifting prevention is just beginning to take off. Market Analysis The market for drone-based surveillance technology is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, driven by increasing demand from law enforcement agencies and commercial customers. According to a report by MarketsandMarkets, the global drone market is projected to reach $14.3 billion by 2025, up from $4.2 billion in 2018. Economic Impact The use of drones for shoplifting prevention has the potential to significantly impact retailers' bottom lines. A study by the National Retail Federation found that shoplifting costs American businesses an estimated $30 billion annually. By using drones equipped with cameras and sensors, retailers can reduce losses due to theft and improve overall security. Practical Business Insights For retailers looking to combat shoplifting, Flock Safety's drone technology offers a range of benefits, including real-time intelligence on suspects and improved response times for security teams. However, companies must also consider the potential risks and challenges associated with using surveillance technology in private security. As the use of drones in shoplifting prevention continues to grow, it is essential for businesses to carefully weigh the benefits against the potential costs and risks. With concerns about privacy and data governance on the rise, one thing is clear: the future of drone-based surveillance technology will be shaped by a complex interplay of factors, including market demand, regulatory frameworks, and societal attitudes towards surveillance. *Reporting by Technologyreview.*