Map that crime, lower that rate

All crimes reported are visually mapped on street maps, which users can easily navigate to view crime incidents around them. This gives the public access to valuable information to make them acutely aware of the types of crimes happening close to them, which may in turn make them more vigilant and less likely to fall victim to similar crimes.

At the heart of the initiative is the simple premise that by sharing information and raising general awareness of localised crimes, South Africans can become more proactive against crime and bring down the crime levels. As the website is a community initiative, Crime Aware is quick to remind users that reporting a crime online on the website is not official and they are still urged to report the crime to the authorities.

Funded by ads

Banner advertising will fund the ongoing development of the website, as each advertiser ensures future improvements and sustainability of the website. The website will soon expand to support mobile phones, RSS feeds and SMS notifications. In-Detail Advertising and Design, a graphic design and web development studio in Johannesburg designed and developed the website, one of its many initiatives over the past 19 years of business.

"We have started a number of self-funded online initiates. It started with MyPetition.co.za and now CrimeAware.co.za. Based on the success of Crime Aware, we will continue developing the website and also complete work on our other exciting web site ideas that we have had in incubation," states Gerald Yapp, of In-detail.

www.crimeaware.co.za was soft launched a week ago and reports that it has already had a record amount of visitors.