A new smartphone app released by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will help the public submit tips that can lead to the capture of child predators.
ICE unveiled the new smartphone app called "Operation Predator" Thursday. Agency officials say the app will help them locate predators and rescue children from sexual abuse and exploitation.
Once you download the app, users can submit tips by phone and online about any suspected criminal activity. All submission are anonymous.
"When children are being sexually abused and exploited, it's a race against the clock to rescue the child and bring the predator to justice," ICE Acting Director John Sandweg said in a press release on their website. "These investigations are one of our highest priorities, and in today's world, we need to be technologically savvy and innovative in our approach."
The app also contains a listing of known fugitives wanted in connection with Homeland Security Investigations. Many of the suspects profiled in the app are accused of possessing child pornography.
Users will also receive alerts about wanted predators and can share that information via email and social media.
Right now, the app is only available in the Apple's App Store, but the agency says it plans to make the app available on other smartphones in the future.
