Ohio Homeland Security launches AI-powered suspicious activity reporting app

Ohio Homeland Security has launched a new suspicious activity reporting system that uses artificial intelligence to gather actionable information on potential threats of violence.

Developed by OHS with its private partner Vigiliti, the Safeguard Ohio app encourages users to provide detailed information to help law enforcement investigate suspicious activity. The app allows users to upload video, audio and photos of incidents, with the option to remain anonymous.

Information is reported in real time to the Statewide Terrorism Analysis and Crime Center, which is staffed around the clock. Analysts review submissions immediately and notify local, state or federal law enforcement as needed. The app replaces OHS’s previous online reporting form.

“Events that threaten the safety of Ohioans can be hard to predict, but they can be prevented with help from timely, detailed tips from the public,” Gov. Mike DeWine said. “This new app simplifies the process to get information to law enforcement quickly and conveniently.”

Users can select from eight categories to report a tip, including drug-related activity, human trafficking, terrorism, school threats and crimes against children.

“One of the best attributes of this new system is the ability to upload video and photos,” said Andy Wilson, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety, which oversees OHS. “More and more people these days — especially our younger generation — don’t like to talk on the phone. This new reporting method will result in more detailed information being shared with the authorities. That’s exactly what we want. Better information leads to better investigations.”

The app is not a substitute for calling 911 and should not be used during an emergency. However, its AI system can identify situations that require an urgent response and will prompt users to call 911.

“The AI-infused prompts are essential components of this new system,” OHS Executive Director Mark Porter said. “We will get the high-quality intelligence we need to act on a tip through this new system. The AI is trained to keep asking questions until the person reporting says they have no more information about the incident.”

Safeguard Ohio is the first criminal justice tip-reporting app in the nation to use AI in this way.

Those completing a report will receive a unique QR code linked to the incident, allowing them to add follow-up information after the initial submission. The app also accepts reports in 10 additional languages besides English: Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Haitian Creole, Hindi, Nepali, Somali, Spanish and Yiddish.