Anonymous crime tips possible with mobile app

  • Published
QUANTICO, Va. (AFNS) --  Suspicious or illegal activity can now be anonymously reported directly to the Air Force Office of Special Investigations using a mobile phone application or by texting 'AFOSI' and the tip to 274637 (CRIMES) in an SMS text message.

AFOSI launched these methods to capitalize on cyberspace capabilities and engage the Air Force community more effectively to prevent crime.

"This tool allows anyone to provide OSI with completely anonymous tips on everything from illegal drugs, theft and terrorist activities to potential insider threats," said Special Agent Daron Hartvigsen, OSI Cyber Investigations and Operations. "Even better, the online and app version allow individuals to send in photos."

"We want to give Airmen a convenient, and most importantly, anonymous means to report activity detrimental to fellow Airmen. With this system they can get involved without fear of exposure or retribution from others," said Christian Oliver, superintendent of AFOSI Detachment 116. "Airmen really want to do the right thing, but are often hesitant because of perceived social repercussions," added Oliver.

Of special concern to Air Force officials are violent crimes against Air Force members, sexual assaults, and drug use.

The application uses industry standard Secure Socket Layers connection, which encrypts information exchange to ensure anonymity. When accessing the app to submit a tip, a file number is created for retrieval. Later, the tipster can check back and see comments by an OSI agent and provide more information.

"With SSL, the agent can only review the posted information, which is only accessible by the tipster and the OSI," says Oliver, "Air Force members and the OSI agent can continue to converse anonymously through the secure system."

Once downloaded, a video describes the app's features to emphasize its secure use and value to the Air Force and other community law enforcement agencies.

The direct link to the anonymous Internet tip line is https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=1111.

Individuals can find the app in both the Android and Apple store as "TipSubmit Mobile" or use the WR code and select AFOSI as the agency when reporting a tip. Tips can also be sent in a SMS text message by texting 'AFOSI' and their tip to 274637 (CRIMES).

To download a trifold with detailed instructions on the program, click here: http://www.osi.af.mil//shared/media/document/AFD-121023-018.pdf

Or, if you need to contact AFOSI directly, either to provide a tip or share a concern, consult your base phone book or call your base operator for the telephone number of your base's AFOSI unit. If you do not have a base telephone book and don't know the number to the base operator, call toll free 1-877-246-1453 for the phone number of the AFOSI unit nearest you. Or if you prefer, send us an e-mail by clicking here: Crimebuster tips.

(Compiled from several reports including those from the Air Force Office of Special Investigations Public Affairs Office, HQ AFSPC Public Affairs, 49th Wing Public Affairs and the 377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs)