Privacy Statement

First Coast Crime Stoppers, Inc. (“FCCS,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) is committed to protecting the privacy and anonymity of our community members. This Privacy Statement explains how we handle information received through our website (fccrimestoppers.com), our tip line (1-866-845-TIPS), and our mobile application (P3 Tips).

1. Our Commitment to Anonymity

Our primary mission is to provide a safe, secure, and anonymous way for citizens to report information about criminal activity.

  • No Personal Information Required: We do not ask for your name, address, phone number, or any other identifying information when you submit a tip.
  • No Tracking: We do not use “caller ID” or electronic recording devices on our tip lines. Our website and mobile app use secure, encrypted technology to ensure that your IP address and location are not captured or stored.
  • Unique Tip ID: Instead of using your name, you are assigned a unique Tip ID number. This number is the only way to track your tip, check its status, or collect a reward.

2. Information We Collect

While we strive for absolute anonymity for tipsters, we may collect different types of information depending on how you interact with our organization:

  • Tip Information: This includes any details you voluntarily provide regarding a crime, suspect, or location. To remain anonymous, do not include your name or contact details within the tip narrative.
  • Donation & Volunteer Information: If you choose to donate to FCCS or volunteer for our board/events, we may collect your name, email, and payment information. This information is used strictly for administrative and fundraising purposes and is never linked to the anonymous tip system.
  • Website Usage Data: We may collect non-identifying aggregate data (such as browser type or pages visited) to improve our website’s functionality. This data is not linked to individual users.

3. Use and Disclosure of Information

  • Tip Distribution: Information provided in a tip is forwarded to the appropriate law enforcement agency for investigation. Because the tip is anonymous, we only share the facts of the crime you reported, not your identity (which we do not possess).
  • Rewards: Rewards are processed using your unique Tip ID number. Payments are made through a secure third-party method that allows you to collect cash without ever revealing your identity to FCCS or the bank.
  • Legal Requirements: FCCS operates under Florida law and the Florida Crime Stoppers Trust Fund guidelines. While we fight to protect anonymity, in rare and exceptional circumstances, a court of law may issue an order regarding information; however, because we do not collect your identity, we generally have no identifying data to provide.

4. Data Security

We employ industry-standard encryption (SSL) and secure servers to protect the data submitted through our website. Tips are transmitted directly to our secure tip management system and are not stored in a way that is accessible to unauthorized parties.

5. Email Communications

Please be aware that standard email is not a secure or anonymous method of communication. If you wish to remain anonymous, do not send tips via email. Use our Submit a Tip page or call 1-866-845-TIPS.

6. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to other sites (such as law enforcement agencies or P3 Tips). We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of those external websites.

7. Changes to This Policy

FCCS reserves the right to update this Privacy Statement at any time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated “Effective Date.”

8. Contact Us

If you have questions regarding this Privacy Statement (not for reporting crimes), you may contact our administrative office:

First Coast Crime Stoppers, Inc.
P.O. Box 47875 Jacksonville, FL 32247
Admin Phone: (904) 398-5883
Note: Do not use the admin phone to report tips if you wish to remain anonymous.