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Does Waze create risk for police?

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Josée Paquet

Several police officers in Los Angeles claim that one of the technology industry's most popular mobile apps, Waze, could put their lives in danger from potential killers who can find where their targets are parked. In fact, they say it was used by the assassins of the two New York police officers on December 20th. 

Owned by Google, Waze is a free service for real-time traffic guidance and warnings about nearby congestion, car accidents, speed traps or traffic cameras, construction zones, potholes, stalled vehicles, and unsafe weather conditions.

Waze users mark police presence on maps without much distinction other than "visible'' or "hidden.''

A spokeswoman sent a letter to the Los Angeles Times, saying the company thinks deeply about safety and security, and that Waze works with the NYPD and others around the world by sharing information. She added that police are generally in favour of Waze because most drivers tend to be more cautious when they think that officers are nearby. 

Sources: NBC, La Presse

Josée Paquet
Josée Paquet
Automotive expert