Texas DPS encourages use of iWatchTexas app for suspicious activity, threat reports

AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – The Texas Department of Public Safety encouraged Texas residents to download the iWatchTexas mobile app to report potential homeland security threats.

Officials said iWatchTexas is a tool that allows people to report suspicious activity that could relate to criminal, terrorist or school safety-related threats. When in doubt, DPS encouraged Texans to report:

• Comments made regarding killing or harming someone;
• Strangers asking questions about building security features and procedures;
• Social media posts about a possible attack or a desire to commit violence;
• A social media account encouraging and posting about vandalism, sabotage or arson;
• Actively showing support for designated foreign terrorist organizations;
• People requesting sensitive information, such as blueprints, security plans or VIP travel schedules without a need to know;
• Buying supplies that could be used to make bombs or weapons or buying uniforms without the proper credentials;
• Taking photos or videos of security features like cameras or checkpoints; or
• Attempted or actual cyber attacks.

“As Texas’ Homeland Security Director, let me assure you that our local, state and federal law enforcement partners are working around the clock to keep our communities safe from any potential terror attacks—but we need the public’s help,” said DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin. “Through iWatchTexas reports, law enforcement can quickly detect and disrupt these types of threats before they materialize. This is not about creating fear—it’s about staying informed, alert and ready to speak up when something doesn’t seem right.”

DPS noted that in March, iWatchTexas launched a new feature for individuals to indicate that their concern is related to foreign influence when submitting a report. Foreign influence threats could include assassination, assault, physical surveillance, harassment, abduction, familial intimidation, digital threats, passport revocation, consular services denial, unlawful detention and deportation, forced rendition and repatriation and INTERPOL abuses.

More information on iWatchTexas can be found online here.