AUSTIN — The Texas Department of Public Safety is encouraging Texans to download and use the iWatchTexas program to report suspicious activity and behavior in schools and communities across the state.
The iWatchTexas program allows residents to report activities or behaviors that may indicate criminal, terroristic or school safety-related threats. Officials said the tool is designed to give the public a direct way to share information with law enforcement.
Reports can be submitted through the free iWatchTexas mobile app, online at www.iwatchtx. org or by calling 1-844643-2251. DPS said submitting a report typically takes less than five minutes.
Once received, reports are reviewed by law enforcement analysts.
All reports are confidential. While providing contact information is optional, DPS officials said doing so can help investigators follow up with additional questions if needed.
DPS officials said preparations for crimes, terrorist attacks or threats to school safety are sometimes observed but not reported.
The department is urging residents to report concerning behavior when in doubt.
Examples of activity to report include comments about killing or harming someone; strangers asking questions about building security features and procedures; social media posts referencing a possible school attack; accounts encouraging vandalism, sabotage or arson; requests for sensitive information such as blueprints or security plans without a clear need; purchasing supplies that could be used to make weapons without proper credentials; and photographing or recording security features such as cameras or checkpoints.
The iWatchTexas app is available at no cost for iPhone users in the Apple App Store and for Android users through Google Play.
DPS officials emphasized that the program is not intended for emergencies. In situations requiring immediate response, residents should call 911.
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