Russia Turns to AI to Find Missing Children

In a groundbreaking move, Russian authorities have begun using artificial intelligence to track down missing children — and early results show it works.

Cutting-edge security and search technology is making a leap forward in Russia. In the Novosibirsk region, officials have rolled out an AI-powered system that helps law enforcement locate missing children, according to state broadcaster Channel One.

The tool relies on neural networks to analyze footage from thousands of city surveillance cameras in real time. That means searches that once took hours can now start instantly, dramatically speeding up emergency response.

Parents can also take part in the process. When a child goes missing, dialing the emergency number “112” triggers a new protocol: operators send a link via SMS or the social platform VKontakte, where parents can upload a photo. Once the image is received, the system automatically begins scanning camera feeds.

Since its launch in mid-April, the AI has already helped track down six missing children. Parents are still required to file a formal police report, but the search begins as soon as the photo is uploaded — a shift that experts say could save lives.

Specialists argue the system’s impact will only grow as more families learn about it. Each successful recovery not only brings relief to parents but also highlights the potential of AI to tackle high-stakes, real-world problems.