AFOSI launches anonymous tip line Published Dec. 11, 2012 By Staff Reports 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- The Air Force Office of Special Investigation recently launched a new program allowing service members, civilians and family members to report crimes anonymously in their area. The program, dubbed "Tip Submit," provides three methods of reporting for users: a smartphone application, text messaging and through the http://www.tipsubmit.com website. "It's really an opportunity for the general populous to provide criminal tips and remain totally anonymous," said Special Agent Will Banis, Detachment 518, AFOSI special agent in charge. "People are reluctant to come forth and report things because they don't want to get involved. This program provides them the opportunity to report crimes and protect their identities at the same time." According to the AFOSI website, this new tool provides military community members worldwide with the ability to report on anything ranging from illegal drugs to possible terrorist activity with the click of a button on their smartphones, with a simple text message or via "Tip Submit". For example, by using the smartphone app, people can report criminal activity and provide evidence such as photos and other documentation they may have gathered. People also have the option of using their phones to scan the "QR" code located on the AFOSI trifold which will take them directly to the Tip Submit website where they can report crimes. Through the website, people are assigned a case code at the time the crime is reported. With this code, the individual can add more information or check on the status of their report at a later time. An agent assigned to investigate the crime can contact the person using the Tip Submit code to ask additional questions. "To actually give agents the ability to follow up with an individual on a case without actually knowing who that individual is, is truly anonymous," Banis said. What makes the program even more unique is that it benefits more than just AFOSI. State and other federal law enforcement agencies also have access to this program since all reports are routed through a central location and disseminated to other agencies. "If falls within someone else's purview or jurisdiction, then that particular lead will be sent to them," Banis said. "This is just another avenue for interagency cooperation." Since the program's launch, AFOSI has seen some activity through the tip line that proves the program is working and that it has a positive effect on the military community. Not only does it benefit service members, civilians and their families and provide a unique capability, it also works hand-in-hand with a program already active in the community - the Eagle Eyes program. According to Banis, the Tip Submit program enhances the Eagle Eyes program because it allows for the reporting of suspicious and criminal activity on the go. "We want to let people know that there are new more innovative ways to report crimes in their communities and still have their identities protected," Banis said. Editor's note: Currently, the overseas texting capability is not available at this time; however, people can still report a crime by downloading the TipSubmit app to their smartphones, logging onto https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=1111 or accessing the AFOSI webpage at http://www.osi.af.mil.