Google’s AI Overview falsely stated Flock license plate cameras hold 23 pounds of copper and $650 worth of gold due to a meme.
Google’s AI Overview incorrectly claimed Flock license plate cameras contain up to 23 pounds of copper and $650 in gold. The error stemmed from an online joke among privacy activists, which the AI misinterpreted as factual data. Flock cameras, used by police for license plate recognition, weigh about three pounds, far less than the AI’s claim.
The false information originated from a Substack post by an anonymous account, later amplified by Google’s AI. At recent market prices, 5 grams of gold equated to roughly $650, but no such quantities exist in the devices. The incident highlights risks of AI misinterpreting satirical or unverified content.
No immediate market reaction was reported, though the error underscores concerns about AI reliability in disseminating financial or technical data.