New data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) Crime Survey for England and Wales has revealed that fraud and computer misuse offences have risen by more than a third in England and Wales in the year to March 2021.
The Crime Survey showed that there were an estimated 4.6 million fraud offences during that period an increase of 24 per cent on 2020 figures, whilst there were 1.7 million computer misuse offences, an increase of 85 per cent compared to the year ending March 2019.
The rise in computer misuse offences was largely driven by a 162 per cent increase in unauthorised access to personal information, including hacking.
This occurred as Fraudsters and criminals took advantage of behavioural changes during the pandemic, such as increased online shopping.
Most other areas of crime in England and Wales showed significant decreases in the Crime Survey, as the Coronavirus pandemic limited physical contact and kept most of the country at home.
These decreases were seen for many violent crimes, theft and offences involving weapons.
Billy Gazard from the Office for National Statistics Centre for Crime and Justice said: “The coronavirus pandemic has had a significant impact on patterns of crime.
“There were large decreases in theft offences, such as domestic burglary and theft from the person, as more people stayed at home and limited their social contact.
“At the same time, there were substantial increases in fraud and computer misuse offences such as hacking, as fraudsters took advantage of behavioural changes during the pandemic, such as increased online shopping.”
Here at Knightsbridge Solicitors, our experts have built up a reputation as one of the leading criminal defence firms.
For help and advice with any aspect of criminal law contact a member of our expert team today on 0115 824 1700 for a discussion on your individual situation.