How AI is being used to report suspicious activity in Ohio.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Using artificial intelligence to report suspicious activity and investigate threats might sound like something out of a science fiction movie, but it's becoming a reality here in Ohio.

On Friday, Ohio Homeland Security announced the launch of Safeguard Ohio, a first-of-its-kind web application. It was developed by OHS and Vigiliti, the company behind an AI chatbot that helps analyze threats. Users can upload photos, videos and audio to report suspicious activity in eight categories, including drug-related activity, human trafficking, terrorism, school threats and crimes against children.

The information is sent in real-time to the Statewide Terrorism and Analysis Crime Center, where analysts will review it and notify the proper local, state or federal law enforcement agencies.

"Events that threaten the safety of Ohioans can be hard to predict, but they can be prevented with help from timely, detailed tips from the public," Gov. Mike DeWine said. "This new app simplifies the process to get information to law enforcement quickly and conveniently."

Safeguard Ohio replaces the current online form used to report tips, but officials say it is not a substitute for 911 and should not be used in the event of an emergency. However, it can identify situations that require an urgent response and will prompt users to call 911. It's the first tip reporting app in the country to use AI this way.

"The AI-infused prompts are essential components of this new system," said Mark Porter, OHS executive director. "We will get the high-quality intelligence we need to act on a tip through this new system. The AI is trained to keep asking questions until the person reporting says they have no more information about the incident."

Officials say the goal is to be able to collect more detailed information for law enforcement.

"More and more people these days -- especially our younger generation -- don't like to talk on the phone," said Andy Wilson, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. "This new reporting method will result in more detailed information being shared with the authorities. That's exactly what we want. Better information leads to better investigations."

Users will receive a unique QR code when reporting an incident that they can use to add follow-up information after submitting the initial report. Safeguard Ohio is available in 10 languages besides English, including Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Haitian, Hindi, Nepalese, Somali, Spanish and Yiddish.