Police Scotland to launch dedicated cybercrime unit – PublicTechnology

Police Scotland has announced a series of measures to tackle online crime and enable officers to make better use of data, digital platforms and artificial intelligence tools

Scottish Police are to set up a new cyber and fraud department in response to rising cybercrime in the country.

The new specialist group will work with other UK agencies and partners to provide a coordinated approach to cyber-related issues, which police said are likely to increase in “complexity” by 2030.

It is estimated that cybercrime accounted for at least 5% of all recorded crimes last year.

Accordingly, the organisation said technology-led change is “fundamental” to its 2030 vision, which aims for “safer communities, less crime, supported victims and a thriving workforce”. The force’s workforce will receive training to be better equipped to tackle online crime and become “one of the most digitally enabled police forces”, the force said.

As part of the three-year plan, which sets out 130 milestones to be achieved by 2027, Scottish Police has also pledged to boost the use of artificial intelligence.

Initiatives include continuing to invest in and develop new AI-powered products, as well as creating a proof-of-concept generative AI solution that employees can use and increase their productivity.

The force has also pledged to become “an even more data-driven organisation” in a bid to take a more proactive approach to preventing crime. It will help officers streamline data entry and use automation so that data is automatically transferred to all the systems that need it.

Related content

Speaking at a press conference, Police Chief Jo Farrell said: “We have a huge amount of data. We are inundated with data and we need to use the latest technology to transform it so that we can combat crime effectively and operate as efficiently as possible.”

The police also said it would establish a new multidisciplinary digital and data innovation product team to help staff find efficient solutions and “drive real innovation”.

The agency will also use technology to provide more “person-centred” contact services, and to “retain and attract staff” by reducing administrative tasks and ensuring they can do their jobs safely and efficiently.

Farrell also indicated that the police are open to using the controversial live facial recognition system, saying it is a tool officers need to keep people safe.

She continued: “If we were not going to use existing biometrics to identify violent offenders or those who commit crimes against the most vulnerable, I think that would be a step backwards if we didn’t explore, explain and continue to pursue that route so that we can put ourselves in a position where we can look back and say we are confident that they are using the technology appropriately and without bias, for the greater good of protecting people.”

The police will also implement a Digital Division program that will see the renewal of Office 365 technology and the criminal records system to address the impact of outdated technology.

Other missions on the list included further rolling out the Digital Evidence Sharing Capability (DESC) to reduce delays in the justice system, and investing in the Policing in a Digital World programme, which aims to help police tackle cybercrime, including online child sexual abuse, exploitation and fraud.