Law enforcement agencies need to be able to respond to criminals who are using technology for their criminal enterprises. Today, law enforcement agencies have numerous modern high-technology tools including license plate readers, digital voice recorders, mobile data terminals, electronic control weapons with high-quality digital cameras, and rapid identification devices. While some agencies have successfully used these tools, many have been caught off guard by criminals’ growing use of social media.

When social media first appeared, few in law enforcement predicted that using it would increase communication between law enforcement and citizens. Even fewer predicted using social media as a crime-fighting tool. Now, law enforcement social media pages feature tools to collect complaints, tips, and compliments, as well as allowing the public to subscribe to feeds.