A widespread text messaging service is launching today that will allow people in the U.S. and Canada to submit anonymous tips involving crimes via text messaging. The service is being powered by mBlox, a mobile transaction company, Anderson Software, a law enforcement software company, with the help of Crime Stoppers. Anyone with a cell phone will be able to text crime tips to the shortcode CRIMES. However, in order for the correct agency to get the tip, the user will have to know the designated ID number for their local agency, which can be found here. For instance, a text message in Silicon Valley must start off with the code TIP333, whereas a tip in San Diego would go to TIP409. Release.

The same or a similar programs have already been operations in three U.S. cities, and seeing significant uptake. In Boston, the city’s Text-a-Tip program helped solved two homicides and fielded hundreds of tips during its first few months of operation, the Seattle PI reported. And, Crime Stoppers of Seattle’s Puget Sound averages about 40 tips a month. TipSoft is now in 32 U.S. cities, 16 Canadian cities, and will soon launch in the UK.