Texas officials are urging residents to download a mobile app for reporting suspicious activity as the nation marks “If You See Something, Say Something” Awareness Day on September 25.
The Texas Department of Public Safety highlighted its iWatchTexas program on Thursday, emphasizing the tool’s role in preventing crimes and protecting schools.
“iWatchTexas is an important tool to help keep our communities safe,” said Homeland Security Division Chief Gerald Brown. “We encourage every Texan to download the app and use it as needed.”
The free mobile app allows users to report suspicious behaviors that might indicate criminal, terrorist, or school safety threats. Reports can also be submitted online at iwatchtx.org or by calling 1-844-643-2251.
Brown stressed the importance of speaking up about concerns.
“Let me be clear – it is always better to report something that may be suspicious and have it turn out to be nothing, than to stay silent and have it turn out to be something where you should have spoken up.”
Each report typically takes less than five minutes to complete. Law enforcement analysts review all submissions, which remain confidential.
The agency outlined several behaviors that warrant reporting. These include comments about harming others, strangers asking about security procedures, and social media posts threatening schools.
Other red flags include requests for blueprints or VIP schedules without proper credentials. Purchases of bomb-making supplies or uniforms by unauthorized individuals should also be reported.
Taking photos or videos of security cameras and checkpoints represents another potential indicator of threat.
The iWatchTexas app is available for free to iPhone users on the Apple App Store and to Android users on Google Play. Officials note the program is not designed for emergencies – those situations still require calling 911.
The nationwide awareness campaign encourages citizens to remain vigilant about potential threats. DPS officials say many crimes could be prevented if witnesses report warning signs they observe.