Questions answered in this file

Who can offer a reward in a cold case?

Law enforcement, governments, Crime Stoppers programmes, families, employers and community groups, each with different rules and conditions.

What conditions do rewards usually have?

They typically require information leading to an arrest, charge or conviction, may exclude certain people and often expire unless renewed.

Can a tipster remain anonymous and still receive a reward?

Yes. Crime Stoppers programmes assign tip numbers and pay rewards without revealing tipsters' identities.

What are the risks of a private family reward?

False tips, scams and direct demands for payment; routing rewards through agencies or recognised programmes reduces these risks.

How should a reward be publicised?

With clear posters, conditions and a tip line, placed where relevant people live and work, plus media and social appeals.