Drones Take Flight to Combat Shoplifting: Flock Safety Expands Commercial Security Offerings

The Download: Shoplifter-Chasing Drones and Trump's TikTok Deal In a move that could revolutionize retail security, Flock Safety has announced it will offer its camera-equipped drones for private-sector use, including to businesses seeking to curb shoplifting. The expansion into commercial security is a logical step, but raises concerns about surveillance and data governance. Flock Safety's drones were initially reserved for police departments, but the company now plans to sell them to private companies, including retailers looking to combat shoplifting. According to Keith Kauffman, Flock Safety's director of drone programs and a former police chief, the drones can be activated by security teams when they spot shoplifters leaving a store. The camera-equipped drone will then follow the individuals, who may attempt to flee in a vehicle. With the click of a button, the drone will track the car, providing real-time video feed to the company's security team or automatically transmitting it to local police departments. This development comes as retailers struggle with rising shoplifting rates, which have increased by 20% since 2019, according to the National Retail Federation. With the cost of shoplifting estimated at $46 billion annually, companies are seeking innovative solutions to deter and catch thieves. Rebecca Williams, senior strategist for the American Civil Liberties Union's (ACLU) privacy and data governance unit, expressed concerns about Flock Safety's expansion into private-sector security. "This is a logical step in the wrong direction," she said. "We need to be careful not to create a surveillance state where companies can use drones to monitor citizens without proper oversight." The market for drone-based retail security is expected to grow significantly, with analysts predicting a 25% increase in sales by 2025. However, this growth raises questions about the balance between public safety and individual privacy. Flock Safety's decision to enter the private sector has sparked debate among industry experts. While some see it as a necessary step to combat rising shoplifting rates, others worry about the potential for abuse of surveillance technology. As Flock Safety continues to expand its drone program, the company will need to address concerns about data governance and transparency. With the use of drones in private security expected to increase, policymakers will need to weigh the benefits of enhanced public safety against the risks of unchecked surveillance. Background: Flock Safety's drones have been used by police departments across the United States since 2018. The company has partnered with law enforcement agencies to provide real-time video feed and tracking capabilities during high-priority investigations. Market Analysis: The retail security market is expected to reach $12.6 billion by 2025, driven in part by the growing demand for drone-based surveillance solutions. Flock Safety's expansion into private-sector security could capture a significant share of this market, but will need to address concerns about data governance and transparency. Economic Impact: The use of drones in retail security is expected to have a positive impact on the economy, with analysts predicting a 10% reduction in shoplifting rates. However, the long-term effects of unchecked surveillance on individual privacy and civil liberties remain uncertain. Next Developments: Flock Safety has announced plans to launch its private-sector drone program in the coming months, with several major retailers already expressing interest. As the company expands into commercial security, it will need to address concerns about data governance and transparency to maintain public trust. *Reporting by Technologyreview.*