A social media campaign by the Federal Bureau of Investigation field office in Pittsburgh is encouraging people to report hate crimes to law enforcement.

The campaign, on social media platforms Facebook and X, formerly known as Twitter, is part of an effort to raise awareness about hate crimes, as they often go unreported at the federal and local level, agents said.

In addition to the social media campaign, billboards have been set up along major highways in Indiana and Somerset counties, as well as in West Virginia.

“We continue to see a rise in hate crimes throughout the communities we live and work in,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. “Unfortunately, we also know there are many more incidents that are never reported, whether it be because of fear of retaliation or not recognizing what happened was a hate crime. I want the community to know that we will work to hold people accountable for committing these serious crimes. No one should live in fear because of someone’s intolerance and hatred.”

Agents encourage anyone in immediate danger of a hate crime to contact 911. To report a past incident, contact the FBI at 1-800-225-5324, FBI Pittsburgh at 412-432-4000 or submit a tip online at https://tips.fbi.gov. Tips can remain anonymous.