More fraud linked to cyber-crime

Crimes of fraud in Scotland have increased by two-thirds over the past two years, sparking fresh calls for Lanarkshire residents to be vigilant.

With International Fraud AwarenessWeekunderway,the latest official figures show a rise from 797 cases in September 2019 to 1328 in September this year – up 67 per cent.

Although cases have remained at roughly the same level year-on-year, fraud increased by 26 per cent between 2019/20 and 2020/21, with the pandemic playing a significant role, including behavioural changes such as more online shopping.

Research published in the recent Recorded Crime in Scotland bulletin estimated that 57 per cent of fraud crimes recorded in 2020/21 were cyber-crimes, compared to 29 per cent in 2019/20.

Scotland’s national advice service, Advice Direct Scotland, provides free, impartial and practical advice to anyone in Scotland on fraud and scams.

Marjorie Gibson, head of operations with Advice Direct Scotland, said:“Scammers exploited the Covid pandemic by preying on people and businesses, and that worrying trend has continued.

“Our team is on hand to offer free, impartial and practical advice on what to look out for or what to do if youthinkyouhavebeenscammed, and any suspected criminal activity should be reported to Police Scotland.”

Worriedindividualsandemployers in Scotland can seek advice about any potential scams by contacting Consumer Advice Scotland or call for free on 0808 164 6000, and the organisation has the authority to report instances toTrading

Standards Scotland for investigation.

Criminal activity should always be reported to the police.