The Wildlife Alert System from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is now using a safe and effective system for submitting anonymous tips on violators.
The public can now contact FWC Law Enforcement by downloading an easy-to-use iPhone or Android app: “FWC Wildlife Alert.”
The new Tip411 system will enable the public to communicate anonymously with members of FWC law enforcement via text, which will allow officers to receive the information they need to address violations more quickly and efficiently.
The new system replaces the Tip@MyFWC.com text and email functions, which have been phased out of operation. You can still submit anonymous text tips by text, phone or via the FWC website.
To report a violation, you can use any one of these methods:
- Download the iPhone or Android “FWC Wildlife Alert” app from your phone’s app store.
- Send a text to 847411 (Tip411) with keyword “FWC” followed by the location and any information you can about the violation.
- Call the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (888-404-3922).
- Submit a tip online at MyFWC.com/WildlifeAlert.
“We are excited to begin using the new Tip411 system to connect the public and FWC law enforcement,” said Wildlife Alert Board Chair Virginia “Jenny” Brock.
“We believe in this digital age the text and app options will increase public safety and conservation efforts by encouraging more people to report violations,” Brock added.
The Wildlife Alert program began over 30 years ago to encourage the public to contact FWC with information regarding wildlife violations. When the information leads to a citation or arrest, the tipster is eligible to receive reward money ranging from $100-$1,000.
The FWC Wildlife Alert Program is administered by the Wildlife Alert Reward Association, which is funded primarily by court-ordered fines paid by violators.
The members of the association promote the program and raise private, tax-deductible charitable donations to supplement the rest of the fund.
Reward Eligibility
You must obtain a confidential code number to be eligible for a reward. When reporting violations online, a code number will be sent to the email address you provide. If you do not wish to provide an email address, please call 888-404-FWCC to obtain a code number. The telephones are answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
You may remain anonymous. You will not be required to testify in court. You may or may not be contacted for additional information, depending on your preference. It is important to report violations as soon as possible and provide as much detail as you can about the physical descriptions of violators, vehicles, license tag numbers, etc.
