Scotland is grappling with a growing fraud crisis, as new figures reveal a staggering increase in cases and a declining resolution rate. Over the past decade, fraud has surged by 140%, with over four in five cases going unsolved, sparking urgent calls for action to combat this epidemic.
Fraud Cases Skyrocket
Between 2014-15 and 2023-24, recorded fraud crimes in Scotland soared from 6,913 to 16,624, according to data from Police Scotland. The percentage of crimes being solved has dramatically fallen even as the number of fraud cases has increased.
A decade ago, Police Scotland’s clear-up rate stood at 50.6%. By 2023-24, this rate had dropped to just 16.5%. Officers consider a crime “cleared up” when they gather enough evidence to bring forward criminal proceedings. The low-resolution rate highlights significant challenges in tackling fraud, particularly as fraudsters increasingly use sophisticated cybercrime methods to exploit victims.
The Role of Cybercrime
Cyber-enabled scams now account for a significant portion of reported cases. In 2023-24, 59% of fraud crimes in Scotland were linked to online activity—a threefold increase since 2019.
Police Scotland has acknowledged the complexity of investigating cyber fraud, with nearly half of the perpetrators’ locations unknown. Investigators confirmed or suspected that 40% of offenders operated from outside Scotland in the cases examined. In comparison, only 11% were based within the country.
This shift toward cybercrime has made it increasingly difficult for law enforcement to identify and prosecute fraudsters, who often operate from overseas or hide behind anonymous digital platforms.
Fraud’s Devastating Impact on Victims
Fraud isn’t just a financial crime; it’s an attack on trust. Victims often lose their life savings, leaving them emotionally shattered and financially devastated. Scottish Labour MSP Katy Clark emphasised the harm caused by fraud, stating: “Fraud can rob victims of their life savings while also destroying their ability to trust others. Yet too often, perpetrators are allowed to repeat the same crime again and again.”
Clark called for stronger support for police and anti-fraud organisations to address this growing crisis. She stated that Scottish Labour will equip law enforcement with the tools to combat 21st-century fraudsters effectively.
Police Scotland’s Response
Recognising the urgency of the situation, Police Scotland announced plans to establish a cyber and fraud specialist division as part of its three-year business plan. Chief Superintendent Conrad Trickett highlighted the division’s goals: “This new division will tackle the growing demand for online crime, enhance our response to fraud in Scotland, and enable closer work with UK law enforcement and other agencies.”
By focusing on cyber-enabled fraud, the division aims to modernise Scotland’s approach to fighting fraud and improve collaboration with national and international partners.
Government Action and Investments
The Scottish government has also acknowledged the widespread harm caused by fraud. A government spokesman stated: “Our sympathies are with anyone affected by fraud, which causes significant harm to individuals and businesses.”
The government highlighted ongoing efforts to address the issue, including record police funding of £1.55 billion in 2023-24. Police Scotland aims to strengthen the country’s ability to combat online crime by establishing a cyber and fraud specialist division. Despite the surge in fraud cases, the government emphasised that Scotland remains one of the safest places to live, with overall crime rates at their lowest levels since 1974.
Why Fraud Awareness Is Critical
As fraud becomes more prevalent, raising fraud awareness is essential to protecting individuals and businesses. Many victims are unaware of fraudsters’ tactics, making them more vulnerable to scams. Educating the public about typical fraud schemes, such as phishing, identity theft, and investment fraud, can help reduce the risk of falling victim. Encouraging individuals to report fraud is equally essential, as it enables law enforcement to track criminal activity and identify patterns.
The fight against fraud requires a collaborative effort between law enforcement, government agencies, and the public. With fraud crossing borders, international partnerships are vital to tracking and prosecuting offenders. At the same time, local communities must play a role in reporting suspicious activity and supporting vulnerable individuals who scammers may target. Strengthening fraud awareness campaigns and investing in advanced investigative tools will be key to reducing the prevalence of fraud in Scotland.
Action Needed
Scotland’s fraud crisis is a sobering reminder of the growing challenges posed by modern crime. Law enforcement must take urgent action to protect victims and bring fraudsters to justice as cases soar and resolution rates plummet.
As Police Scotland works to establish a specialised cyber and fraud division, individuals, businesses, and government agencies must prioritise fraud prevention and collaborate on solutions. Raising fraud awareness, reporting suspicious activity, and equipping law enforcement with the tools to combat fraud are critical steps toward a safer, more secure Scotland. Together, we can tackle this growing threat and ensure that fraudsters face the consequences of their actions.
