If you encounter an unauthorized or suspicious drone in your area, you can report it using the following steps, depending on your location and the situation:

1. Determine if the Drone is Unauthorized or Illegal

A drone might be unauthorized if:

• It is flying in restricted airspace (e.g., near airports, military bases, or critical infrastructure).
• It is flying too close to people, private property, or events without permission.
• It is being used for spying, harassment, or illegal surveillance.
• It is flying at night or beyond the operator’s visual line of sight without approval.
• It appears to be endangering public safety (e.g., interfering with emergency response teams).

2. Record Key Details

Before reporting, try to gather as much information as possible:

• Time and location of the sighting.
• Drone description (size, color, lights, markings).
• Flight behavior (hovering, following people, flying erratically).
• Possible operator location (if you see someone controlling it).
• Photo or video evidence, if safe to capture.

3. Report to Authorities

Depending on the situation, you can report the drone to different authorities:

• Local Law Enforcement (Police) – If the drone is violating privacy, causing a disturbance, or appears to be operated illegally.
• Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) [USA] – For unauthorized drone activity near airports or breaking FAA regulations. You can report through the FAA’s website or their drone safety hotline (844-FLY-MY-UA).
• Transport Canada (Canada) – Report unauthorized drone use near restricted areas.
• Civil Aviation Authority (UK) – Use the CAA or report it to local police if the drone is a security concern.
• Air Traffic Control (ATC) – If a drone is flying near an airport, immediately report it to the nearest ATC.

4. Additional Measures

• If the drone is posing an immediate threat to safety, contact emergency services.
• If you suspect espionage or terrorism, report it to national security agencies.
• If the drone is trespassing on private property, consider contacting a legal professional for guidance.