New York launches anti-terror app See something Send Something

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App, dubbed 'See Something, Send Something', was unveiled last night
It lets New Yorkers anonymously report suspicious activities to officials
Users can send photos and notes to intelligence center with just one tap
Critics warn the application will likely be used to send mostly bogus tips
But Gov Andrew Cuomo deemed it 'essential' in the battle against terror
He also revealed MTA is hiring 46 cops to boost counterterrorism efforts

Published: 18:23 EST, 23 November 2015 | Updated: 07:09 EST, 24 November 2015

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New Yorkers now have a new tool in the fight against terrorism - a smartphone app.

The app, dubbed 'See Something, Send Something', allows people across the state to send photos and information of suspicious-looking people and activities to officials with the tap of a screen.

They can do so anonymously, without the fear of appearing discriminatory.

After receiving a terror report via the app, the New York State Intelligence Center will then look at it and evaluate its credibility, before alerting the relevant enforcement agency if it is deemed real.

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Fighting terrorism: A new app, 'See Something, Send Something', allows New Yorkers to anonymously send photos and information of suspicious-looking activities to officials with the tap of a screen (file picture)

The app was unveiled last night by Governor Andrew Cuomo in the wake of the Paris massacre, during which 130 people were killed by terrorists in a series of shootings and suicide bombings.

It is now available to download, for free, on iPhones and Androids.

Once 'See Something, Send Something' is launched on their phones, users must enter their name and phone number. They can then send information on any suspicious sightings right away.

'Please send a note with as much detail as possible,' the app tells users sending messages.

The app - also available in other states like Colorado, Louisiana and Ohio – includes information on what sorts of activity should be reported, such as bags left unattended on public transport.

New York State Police Superintendent Joseph D'Amico stressed it is similar to a 'telephone crime tip line or hot line' - and is not an alternative to calling 911 in emergencies, according to RT.com.

Free and downloadable: The app - also available in other states like Colorado, Louisiana and Ohio – includes information on what sorts of activity should be reported, such as bags left unattended on public transport

Governor: 'See Something, Send Something' was unveiled last night by Andrew Cuomo (pictured) in the wake of the Paris massacre, during which 130 people were killed in a series of shootings and suicide bombings

'If you see something that may be linked to terrorism, send something,' D'Amico said.

Cuomo acknowledged the app may be used to send bogus tips, the New York Daily News reports.

'When you ask for anonymous tips, you very well could get false information or information the person believes is true, but turns out not to be correct,' the governor said.

However, he dismissed critics' claims that false tips will far outweigh real threats and result in a waste of officials' time, describing the app as an 'essential' part of the city's battle against terrorism.

A post on the governor's website about the application reads: 'Have you ever seen something suspicious, but weren’t sure how to report it? Now you can. Download See Something, Send Something and you can anonymously inform authorities if you see a potential threat.

'We are doing everything we can to keep New Yorkers safe, and this is one way you can help.

Increased presence: Security has been stepped up in New York following the horrific attacks in the French capital on November 13. Above, police officers stand guard in front of Macy's at Herald Square last Friday

Cuomo also announced yesterday that the MTA is hiring 46 cops to boost the counterterrorism capacity of public transportation, including at the Grand Central and Penn rail stations.

'These new efforts are essential pieces in our fight against terrorism,' Cuomo said.

'We have stepped up our preparedness in the aftermath of the Paris attacks, and we continue to remain vigilant against those who seek to spread fear and violence.

'Despite the tremendous pain and loss that terrorist attacks around the world have caused the people of this state, the family of New York stands stronger than ever before.'

Security efforts have been increased in New York state following the horrific attacks in the French capital on November 13, which the Islamic State (ISIS) has since claimed responsibility for.

Yesterday, the State Department issued a worldwide travel alert, warning U.S. citizens of the risks of traveling because of what it described as 'increased terrorist threats.'

To download the new app, visit ny.gov/SeeSendNY.