AI is revolutionizing urban security with predictive crime-fighting tech
Artificial intelligence is transforming urban security by predicting crimes, analysing digital footprints, and processing vast amounts of data in real time. Experts highlight its potential to drastically reduce offences—from car thefts to cybercrime—while also warning of risks if human oversight is neglected.
AI-driven video surveillance has become one of the most sought-after applications in law enforcement. Both Russian and international authorities are now adopting these systems to enhance public safety in cities.
AI’s ability to detect hidden patterns is reshaping crime prevention. Neural networks can now predict when and where offences might occur, recognise faces and voices, and even identify altered content like deepfakes. These advancements allow real-time monitoring, making urban areas harder targets for criminals.
The impact is already visible in Moscow. Between 2012 and 2025, AI-based systems helped slash car thefts and hijackings by 97%, according to Alexey Korobchenko, head of information security at Kode Bezopasnosti. Nikita Leokumovich, head of digital forensics at Angara MTDR, added that AI can process data instantly—replacing the work of thousands of analysts. Experts agree that AI’s biggest strength lies in its crime-fighting potential. Alexey Palamarchuk, CEO of NtechLab, predicts that within four years, AI could help solve up to 90% of urban crimes. Irina Mezhenyeva, a senior analyst at Gazinformservice, also noted that AI’s ability to track digital footprints is improving cybercrime investigations. Yet, Mezhenyeva stressed that every AI-generated decision must undergo human review. Without this safeguard, automated judicial errors could occur, undermining trust in the technology.
AI is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of modern security, with cities adopting it to deter offenders and speed up investigations. The technology’s capacity to analyse data and predict crimes has already delivered measurable results. However, experts insist that human oversight remains critical to ensure accuracy and fairness in its application.
