Ohio Launches AI-Powered App for Suspicious Activity Reporting

Ohio Homeland Security has launched Safeguard Ohio, a pioneering AI-powered app designed to enable the public to anonymously report suspicious activities and potential threats of violence. The app allows users to upload videos, audio, and photos while interacting with AI prompts that encourage detailed information submission, enhancing the quality of tips for law enforcement. Submitted information is instantly routed to the Statewide Terrorism Analysis and Crime Center, where analysts review and notify appropriate agencies. The app supports reporting in eight categories including drug activity, human trafficking, terrorism, school threats, and crimes against children, and is accessible in 10 languages. Officials highlight its appeal to younger users who prefer digital reporting over phone calls, potentially improving public safety through increased and more detailed intelligence. However, concerns have been raised about privacy, false accusations, and the transparency of AI decision-making in threat assessment, with developers assuring safeguards are in place to mitigate misuse.