Fighting crime with social media
It is encouraging to see more and more people using cell phone groups and other social media platforms to report suspicious activity or get involved in the security of their suburb.
SOUTH OF JOHANNESBURG – Law enforcement promotes this type of partnership and citizens who engage in it are valuable assets to the work of the police or security companies.
“Many community police forums and residents’ associations have adopted these types of platforms today and are seeing definite benefits from the community involvement. “We encourage residents to either join their local WhatsApp group or speak to their neighbours and security provider about starting a social network,” says Clive Humphrey, Managing Director of ADT Central. It’s only once you’re part of the group and getting the regular updates that you realise how much happens in your suburb every day and how many people really care and are involved in crime prevention.
Humphrey points out that as smart as our phones are these days, they are also often targeted by criminals. “We therefore urge users to download the relevant tracking application on their phone so that they can find the phone if it’s stolen. Not only could you get your phone back but the tracking could lead the police to criminal hideouts.” Speak to your cellphone service provider and get this tracking application activated on your phone for peace of mind.
Technology is definitely changing the way we view security. “We are starting to see some really innovative smart phone apps which are extending personal safety and monitoring beyond the private security provider’s service. “A recent App from ADT for example allows monitoring and response beyond the home or business premises to offer help whenever and wherever it is needed.
We will also shortly have access to technology which offers consumers full remote control of their home security systems wherever they are, whenever they choose, via laptop, smartphone or at home via interactive touchscreen.
“As we’ve always said, crime is everyone’s problem and every single one of us CAN make a difference. Leverage the power of social media and technology to be involved in crime prevention in your community,” says Humphrey.
