PlateRanger comes out on top in critical security, privacy, and compliance categories.
Full Compliance Stack
Independent experts* have shown that Flock cameras can be broken into very quickly – in under 30 seconds. The researchers also found Flock’s live video can be intercepted with cheap equipment, and that the devices store sensitive information without proper protection. These issues raise real questions about Flock’s security practices and their SOC 2 claims, which may expose agencies to civil rights concerns and cyber-liability risk.
*
“Formalizing My Flock Safety Security Research,” GainSec, November 5, 2025; “We Hacked Flock Safety Cameras in Under 30 Seconds,” Benn Jordan, November 16, 2025
On-device access utilizing CJIS security.
Proven, maintained Linux/AWS IoT operating system.
Optional MFA + zero-trust key rotation.
All images/videos are only available to the agency.
Quarterly red-team tests + annual 3rd-party pen tests.
Choosing the right LPR system is critical for ensuring public safety and operational efficiency. Here are key factors to keep in mind.
Manual license plate identification can slow investigations, increase costs, and introduce human error—leading agencies to chase unreliable leads instead of actionable intelligence.
Not all LPR systems reliably capture plates in low-light conditions, bad weather, or at high speeds. Some also lack the ability to recognize and match partial plates, limiting their effectiveness in investigations.
Capturing video alongside plate reads provides crucial investigative context. However, not all LPR systems offer automated video capture, potentially leaving agencies without critical evidence.
An effective LPR system should integrate seamlessly with your Real-Time Crime Center and other critical public safety platforms. Without bi-directional open API capabilities, agencies may face siloed data and operational inefficiencies.
Law enforcement expects their LPR system to protect sensitive data, meet CJIS requirements, maintain a clear chain of custody, and maintain security, data control and compliance.
Let’s take a closer look at the differences between the two category leaders in license plate recognition, Flock Safety and PlateRanger.
PlateRanger is the latest license plate recognition system for law enforcement from SoundThinking, the makers of ShotSpotter gunshot detection and CrimeTracer advanced analytics.
Flock Safety LPR is part of a suite of products that includes gunshot detection and security cameras for businesses, schools, HOAs, and law enforcement.
PlateRanger’s combination of high-definition cameras and AI models allow the system to accurately capture license plate and vehicle information at night, in low light, during severe weather, and even at speeds up to 70 miles per hour. Flock Safety may struggle with stacked lettering, low light, and identifying vehicles without plates.
PlateRanger allows you to search for vehicles even if you only have partial plates or details like make, model, and color. You can also get alerts when possible matches are detected. Flock Safety can’t process partial information and doesn’t offer partial match alerts.
PlateRanger automatically captures high-quality video clips for every detected license plate, maintaining exceptional accuracy and clarity even in challenging nighttime conditions through patented technology.
Officers get instant, actionable vehicle and plate data — right on the devices they already use:
PlateRanger allows agencies to control their LPR data. PlateRanger is SOC 2 and CJIS-compliant, with AES-256 encryption, and fully supported hardware and software environments that are actively, and regularly patched for security.
PlateRanger offers support from experts with law enforcement backgrounds at any time of the day or night, 365 days a year. Flock Safety does not currently offer the same level of support.
PlateRanger’s unique combination of high-definition cameras, app technology, and real-time alerts give law enforcement a leg up in any investigations involving vehicles.
Here’s what you can expect after filling out the form:
An expert on our team will respond within one business day.
We will schedule a quick call to understand your LPR needs.
We will give you a custom demo designed for your agency.
