FBI launches new application to make it easier to find fugitives, missing persons

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) recently launched a new mobile application, called FBI Wanted, to allow the public to view, search, and filter a variety of issues covered by the bureau, including wanted fugitives, missing persons, deceased victims, and crime suspects.

“Since the earliest days of the Bureau, when wanted flyers were tacked to post office walls, the public has played a vital role in helping the FBI and its partners locate criminals on the run and solving cases of all kinds,” Christopher Allen, FBI’s head of Investigative Publicity and Public Affairs Unit, said. “This app is designed to put another digital tool in the hands of concerned citizens so they can help protect their families and communities.”

The bureau said the app will also allow the public to bookmark individual profiles with one touch and customize their display for information most important to them. The app also gives people the ability to report suspicious activity quickly and safely.

The FBI Wanted app is the third mobile application launched by the bureau. In 2011, the Child ID app was introduced to allow parents to electronically store their children’s pictures and vital information in case their kids go missing. In Aug. 2016, the FBI Robbers app was launched to publicize unknown and serial robbers sought by the FBI.

“Thousands of cases have been solved over the years thanks to the watchful eyes of concerned citizens, and that has made the country a safer place for all of us,” Allen said. “The FBI Wanted app will help carry on this tradition of partnership. We encourage everyone to download it and report any pertinent tips to the FBI.”