Quick Answer
To report a crime anonymously on MySAPS, download the official MySAPS mobile application from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store (or dial *134*10111# on any mobile phone). Open the app, select Submit Tip-off, enter the crime details, upload any photos or videos if available, and select the Anonymous option before submitting. Your identity, cell phone number, and personal profile details will not be attached to the tip-off submitted to the SAPS Crime Stop Call Centre.
Overview of the MySAPS Mobile Application
The MySAPS Mobile Application is a free digital initiative provided by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in partnership with the State Information Technology Agency (SITA). Designed to foster community-centered policing, the app allows citizens across South Africa to submit crime tip-offs directly to the Crime Stop Call Centre, locate nearby police stations, view missing persons or wanted suspects, and monitor regional crime statistics.
A core feature of the platform is enabling citizens to report illegal activities 100% anonymously. This empowers community members to contribute to crime prevention and public safety without fear of exposure, intimidation, or reprisal.
Key Features of Anonymous Crime Reporting
When submitting a tip-off through MySAPS, users are presented with two choices: staying Anonymous or selecting Communicate:
- Guaranteed Anonymity: Selecting the “Anonymous” option strips your device identifiers, phone number, saved profile information, and email address from the report before it reaches SAPS.
- Encrypted Transmission: All information submitted through the mobile application is encrypted during transmission to safeguard data privacy.
- Reference Number Tracking: Every submitted tip-off generates a unique reference number (e.g.,
REF00XXX/2026). You can use this code to provide updates or follow up via Crime Stop (08600 10111) while keeping your identity concealed. - Multimedia Submissions: Users can upload photos or video recordings from their device gallery to provide concrete evidence alongside their text descriptions.
1.Download and Open MySAPS:Available on iOS, Android, and Huawei AppGallery.
Download the official MySAPS app from your smartphone’s application store. Alternatively, feature phone users can dial *134*10111#. You are not required to complete the optional profile setup to submit reports.
2.Select ‘Submit Tip-off’:Access the main crime reporting module.
Open the app and tap the Submit Tip-off button located on the main dashboard.
3.Describe the Crime and Location:Provide clear and specific details.
Fill in the details of the crime or suspicious activity. Be as descriptive as possible, including:
- Type of activity (e.g., drug trafficking, illegal firearms, burglary, GBV, corruption).
- Specific location, street address, or prominent landmark.
- Physical descriptions of suspects, vehicles, or license plate numbers.
- Date and time of the incident or recurring events.
4.Attach Supporting Evidence:Optional photo or video uploads.
If you have photos or video footage of the activity or suspects, attach them from your device gallery. Grant the app temporary media access if prompted.
5.Select ‘Anonymous’ and Submit:Crucial step to protect your identity.
When prompted to select your reporting preference, choose Anonymous (do not select “Communicate”). Review the submission details and tap submit. Save or write down the generated reference number for future reference.
Emergency Reporting vs. Anonymous Tip-Offs
It is important to understand when to use the MySAPS tip-off service versus dialing emergency channels:
| Category | Emergency Line (10111) | MySAPS Anonymous Tip-Off / Crime Stop |
| Primary Purpose | Immediate life-threatening situations and crimes in progress. | Intelligence, tips on criminal networks, drug dealing, or wanted suspects. |
| Response Mechanism | Direct and immediate police unit dispatch to the location. | Information is analyzed by Crime Stop and assigned to specialized investigative units. |
| Identification | Caller location and number are captured to assist emergency responders. | Full anonymity option provided; reporter identity remains completely hidden. |
| Channel | Toll-free call to 10111. | MySAPS App, USSD (*134*10111#), or Share-Call 08600 10111. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is my identity truly hidden when I report anonymously on MySAPS?
Yes. When you choose the Anonymous option during submission, your name, telephone number, email, and user profile are removed from the message header. The Crime Stop agents and investigating officers receive only the text details and attached media you provided.
2. What happens if I already filled out my profile details in the app?
Filling out the “My Profile” tab in the app is strictly optional. Even if you have filled in your personal details, choosing the Anonymous selection when submitting a tip-off prevents your saved profile information from being transmitted to SAPS.
3. Does SAPS track my location via GPS when I submit a tip-off?
The app requests GPS permissions primarily to locate nearby police stations in the Station Finder tool. When submitting an anonymous tip-off, your exact GPS coordinates are not automatically attached to your report unless you manually write the address or location details in the report text.
4. How can I add extra information to a tip-off I submitted previously?
Open MySAPS, go to My History, or tap Submit Additional Information. Enter your original reference number (e.g., REF00XXX/2026) and add your update. You can submit updates continuously while remaining anonymous throughout the process.
5. Can I report a crime anonymously without a smartphone or mobile data?
Yes. You can use the feature-phone USSD service by dialing *134*10111# from any mobile network in South Africa. Follow the menu prompts to submit your tip-off anonymously. Alternatively, you can call the Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111.
6. Should I use MySAPS if a crime is happening right now?
No. MySAPS tip-offs are processed for investigation rather than immediate emergency response. If a crime is currently in progress, someone is in physical danger, or urgent police intervention is needed, call 10111 immediately or contact your local police station response vehicle.