Twitter the Crime Detective

We have all been warned about the security risks we face on social networking sites but a new report out today by Crimestoppers highlights the ways in which social networking can also have a positive influence. The charity has received tip offs to help solve 9000 cases last year which resulted in 6917 arrests and charges. This result was a 5 year high with a considerable £35,000 being paid out in tip off rewards. Crimestoppers initial step towards incorporating the new digital age was in 2008 with the launch of the encrypted online form which has encouraged 25,000 actionable forms to be completed. There are now plans to develop the form further. Text messages are routed through special software to ensure anonymity of informers. By encompassing social networking in the wider picture Crimestoppers states it allows the public to “receive information, ask questions and discuss the latest crime topics, which allows people to fully interact with the charity.”

Hannah Daws, Head of Communications at Crimestoppers said: “Social networking sites are a trend that is continually growing and changing the way people consume information and interact with one another and organisations. So we have ensured that Crimestoppers keeps up to speed with the latest developments and utilises these sites to not only inform the public of what we’re up to, but to publicise faces of wanted criminals in the hope that someone will recognise them and pass on vital information.”

Social networking is sure to play a vital part in the dissemination of information and has demonstrated that it can also have a positive impact.

• No Related Post