The Internet’s Role in Finding Missing Persons: Strategies and Tips

The Internet’s Role in Finding Missing Persons: Strategies and Tips

With the advent of the digital age, the internet has emerged as a powerful tool that can be used for a multitude of tasks. One of the most significant applications of the internet is in the search for missing persons.

According to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), there were 87,438 active missing person cases in the US as of 31 December 2020. While traditional methods of searching for missing persons, such as distributing flyers and conducting searches on foot have been used for many years, the internet provides investigators and families of the missing with unprecedented access to tools and resources that can aid in their search. In this article, we will explore strategies and tips for using the internet in the search for missing persons.

1. Engage Social Media

Social media has become an indispensable tool for finding missing persons. When a loved one goes missing, the first thing that many people do is turn to social media to spread the word. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other social media platforms have network effects that enable information to spread quickly and widely.

Create a central point of communication, such as a Facebook page or Twitter account dedicated to the search, and encourage people to share information and updates on the missing person. Utilize geotags and hashtags to increase the search’s visibility and increase the chances of reaching people who may have information.

2. Leverage Online Databases

Online databases can be an invaluable resource in the search for missing persons. There are many online databases that track missing persons reports, some of which are compiled by law enforcement agencies, and others by private organizations.

Examples of online databases include the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), NamUs, and Missing Persons of America, among others. These databases can provide a wealth of information on missing persons, including their physical descriptions, photographs, and last known locations; they can also aid in locating unidentified remains.

3. Use Online Advertising

Another strategy for finding missing persons involves online advertising. Online advertising can be a powerful tool in getting the word out about a missing person. Google Ads, Facebook Ads, and other online advertising platforms can be highly-targeted, reaching audiences in specific geographic regions or communities. Advertisements can be customized to display images and information about the missing person, along with a call to action for anyone who might have seen them.

4. Investigate Social Media Accounts and Online Activity

In today’s digital age, it’s not uncommon for missing persons to have active social media accounts or some online presence. Investigating the missing person’s social media profiles, email accounts, and other online activity can provide valuable clues in locating them.

Social media activity can reveal the missing person’s interests, networks, and recent activity. It can also provide clues about their whereabouts. Online activity can be monitored using specialized tools like Social Catfish or Pipl, browsing through search engine history, and other methods.

5. Work with Law Enforcement Agencies

Finally, working with law enforcement agencies can be incredibly beneficial in the search for missing persons. Law enforcement has access to specialized tools and resources that may not be available to the public.

Be sure to report the missing person promptly and provide law enforcement with any pertinent information. Participate in any search efforts and work with law enforcement to support the search in any way possible. Familiarize yourself with the agencies that handle missing person cases and become a point of contact for future events.

Conclusion

In summary, the internet can be a powerful tool in the search for missing persons. Strategically using social media, online databases, online advertising, investigating social media accounts, and working with law enforcement agencies are effective strategies for finding missing persons. As digital technology continues to evolve, it’s important to remember that the internet can be an invaluable resource in helping find missing persons.