Facebook users will soon be getting Amber Alerts when they log on, thanks to a new deal between the company and the Justice Department to broaden the warnings for missing children.
“Protecting the well-being of our young people is a responsibility that falls to every American,” Attorney General Eric Holder said in a statement. “Each of us can help by paying close attention to alerts that come in — and by making sure you are plugged into the Amber Alert network via social media.”
The alerts will go out to users that are in the geographical area of where the child was reported missing. Online search engine Bing will also allow users to access Amber Alerts more easily through online broadcast tools.
Mr. Holder said that since its inception in 1996, the Amber Alert system has helped return more than 700 abducted children.
“The more vigilant citizens we have on the look-out, the better our chances of a quick recovery,” he said.
• Phillip Swarts can be reached at pswarts@washingtontimes.com.
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