Google AI Spreads False Claim About Valuable Metals in Surveillance Cameras
A bizarre rumor spread online claiming that Flock Safety surveillance cameras were packed with valuable metals. The claim, which was entirely unfounded, briefly appeared in Google's AI-generated search summaries as a factual answer.
The response stated that Flock devices contained between 1 and 5 grams of gold and between 2 and 23 pounds of copper. This would have made the cameras worth targeting for scrap metal.
However, this claim was physically impossible, given that a single Flock camera weighs only around three pounds. Additionally, the idea ignored the reality of electronics recycling, where precious metals are often difficult to recover.
The rumor originated from online discussions criticizing automated license plate reader systems, including satirical and AI-generated content that exaggerated the potential value of the devices.