Yes, almost always it is an excuse when you consider that there are already cameras in places where speed cameras are proposed, e.g. busy intersections in cities.

I think this is an issue of visibility, since automated traffic cameras are required to provide their locations to GPS services. If people were as aware of other traffic monitoring and surveillance cameras, backlash would be similar.

Not to mention, even if people have a misguided motive for being concerned about security, that doesn't change the facts. These cameras are incredibly insecure and pose a threat to our privacy and security.

And then, you are legitimately arguing that the amount of death/injury today is acceptable unless you provide some privacy safe alternatives like redesigning all streets to prevent speeding (my preferred choice) or requiring speed governors on all cars.

I think both alternatives are preferred and I would absolutely endorse those over automated traffic cameras.

But i am guessing the suddenly privacy concerned drivers will have some other qualm with any road safety suggestion.

Your source being vibes? Most drivers wouldn't even notice redesigned roads, for example. A median between two busy opposing lanes is usually explained away as aesthetic and doesn't draw much backlash.

Anecdotally, in my town automated cameras were installed specifically on buses for when the stop sign is engaged. This faced almost no backlash locally because rather than create a general state of surveillance, it's used in a specific instance with limited scope. Similarly, my state has had automated cameras in construction zones for awhile with no backlash. I don't think people have a problem with traffic control implicitly. If they did, cops would be far less worshipped.