October 17, 2019 - The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) launched the iWatchTexas mobile application (app) on June 8, 2018, which the public can use to report suspicious activities or behaviors that may indicate ongoing or future criminal or terrorist activity.
The iWatchTexas was created as a partnership between communities and law enforcement, and utilizes citizen-sourced tips related to criminal activity. DPS developed the iWatchTexas mobile app at the direction of Governor Greg Abbott to make it easier for the public to report suspicious activity in Texas, including criminal, terroristic or school safety-related threats.
The app is available for iPhone users on the Apple App Store (iWatchTexas) and for Android users on Google Play (iWatchTexas). The public can report suspicious behaviors through the iWatchTexas program via the mobile app, online at www.iwatchtx.org or by calling 1-844-643-2251. A report usually takes less than five minutes to complete, and once submitted, each report is reviewed by law enforcement analysts.
All reports are confidential (providing contact information, which is optional, will allow for follow-up questions). Preparations for crime, terrorist attacks and threats to school safety may often be seen, but not reported. When in doubt, speak up. Here are some examples of behaviors and activities to report:
- Comments made regarding killing or harming someone.
- Briefcase, suitcase, backpack or package left behind.
- Cars or trucks are left in no-parking zones at important buildings.
- Strangers asking questions about building security features and procedures.
- Taking photographs or videos of security features, such as cameras or checkpoints.
Note: The iWatchTexas program is not designed to report emergencies. If a situation requires an emergency response, call 911.
