Using Neighborhood Watch

Overview

At VirtualShield, we believe knowledge is power. We also believe your personal safety is just as valuable as your online privacy. We want you to be aware of the potential dangers around you and your family. Our unique Neighborhood Watch tool will help you accomplish this task.



How does it work?

Our Neighborhood Watch tool provides real-time access to public criminal and sex offender data. We monitor criminal records and databases nationwide, and our notification system will alert you immediately if a convicted criminal resides anywhere near your location.

This powerful tool comes included with the VirtualShield Ultimate plan, or it can be purchased using an add-on. Simply click on the map markers that appear to see photos (where available), addresses, convictions, and other information about the offenders on the map.

Use this tool to stay informed, talk openly with your family about safety, ensure everyone you know stays outside of harm’s way, address concerns about law/crime, and receive immediate alerts so you’ll always be aware when changes happen in or around your neighborhood.


Why is it important?

Preliminary 2025 FBI data shows a significant drop in U.S. crime, with violent crime down 9.3% and murders down 18.1% from 2024, marking the largest decrease since 1937. Despite this, roughly 77 million Americans (1 in 3 adults) have a criminal record.

While property crime is far more common than violent crime, research indicates that sex offenses are one of the most underreported crimes that happen. Perpetrators are overwhelmingly male (93.6%), and a considerable portion of offenses involve victims who know their abuser.

The importance of this service cannot be overstated. If you have any children or loved ones, the best defense against crime is to be aware of your surroundings. And if you live alone, you can rest assured knowing your neighborhood is safe when you leave your home.


Using Neighboorhood Watch

Using this tool couldn’t be easier. Once active, you can manage everything from your Account Dashboard. There are no apps required. This service works on any device with an internet connection.

Here are a few instructions to get you going:
1

Start by visiting your Account Dashboard. Select Neighborhood Watch from the navigation menu, or use the link below:

If you do not have a VirtualShield Ultimate plan or the Identity Theft Protection add-on, you can upgrade your subscription from your Account Dashboard.
2

Press the Setup button to activate your protection, if you have not done so already.

For more help verifying your identity and activating Neighborhood Watch, see our support article.
3

Below Search, enter a valid U.S. Postal address to see a map of nearby offenders.

You can zoom the map by pinching with two fingers or using a mouse wheel.
4

Registered sex offenders and convicted criminals will appear red on the map. Select a specific map marker then choose See Details.

Below Offender Details you will see the criminal’s photo (where available), home address, convictions, and other information.

5

Select a search radius to expand your search, and press Add Alert to receive immediate alerts when new offenders crop up in your area.

Once you create alerts, we’ll update you on your Account Dashboard so you can keep on top of new developments.


Common Questions

Can I monitor multiple addresses at once?
Absolutely! Simply enter a valid U.S. Postal address to monitor multiple different addresses at the same time. However, you will only receive alerts for one address at any given time.
There are criminals in my area, what can I do?
Research indicates that only around 3% of sex offenders are likely to commit another crime after being released from jail. There is no need to contact law enforcement unless you believe you are in danger.

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