It's something we've all seen countless times around New York City: signage and announcements that encourage us to report suspicious behavior we might notice in public. 

But who do we alert if there's not a police officer around?

Shady-looking characters aren't always up to no good, in fact, the concept of a shady looking character is quite relative and fluid, especially here. But New Yorkers need to be on guard, and now there's a new tool to help.

It's a new app called See Something, Send Something, which facilitates reporting suspicious behavior, unattended packages, and things of that nature.

Governor Cuomo's office released the app on Monday. It is not there to replace 911 and it is not for reporting emergencies. 

The idea is to snap a photo of worrisome behavior or objects. Reports via the app go directly to the New York State Intelligence Center, where the threat can be assessed.

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New York State Police public information officer Beau Duffy said in an announcement, "This could include an unattended backpack or briefcase in a public place, a vehicle that's parked in an unusual location, or someone who is showing an unusual interest in a building or other facility."

Plus, images and notes that individuals send in are geo-tagged so authorities will know exactly where the problem is. Furthermore, officials will be able to contact tipsters.

Take a look at the video below, prepared by NYS Executive Chamber, that outlines how to use the app and when it's appropriate. 

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[via DNA Info]