Reclassification of ‘cyber crime’ improves cyber defenses

Reclassification of ‘cyber crime’ improves cyber defenses

Office for National Statistics’ move to incorporate cyber crime into official crime statistics long overdue

Cyber crime has formally emerged as the single largest type of offence in the UK following the reclassification of crimes by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The reclassification – which has formally increased the number of crimes set out in the Crime Survey of England and Wales by around 40 per cent – has been welcomed by APMG International who says it will drive greater awareness of cyber crime, assist law enforcement agents, and encourage businesses to up their defences.

The Office for National Statistics has incorporated fraud and cyber crimes into its crime figures for the first time, in a move that has seen it officially become the UK’s most common offence. By including cyber crime, the estimated number of annual offences has increased from 6.8 million to around 11.6 million, though some experts think the real number is significantly higher.

Richard Pharro, CEO of APMG, commented:

“Official statistics have, to date, failed to include this modern crime. When we consider the fact that the global cost of cyber crime was found to have surpassed that of the drug industry back in 2011, this change is long overdue. Not counting these offences alongside more traditional ones has artificially depressed the statistics and denied the very real impact that cyber crime has on citizens and businesses.

“This isn’t simply an academic question of definitions or a question of what does – or doesn’t – make it on to the ONS’s ledger. With an incomplete picture of the criminal landscape, it has been difficult for many organisations to understand the very real threat of cyber crime and develop a strategy to reduce the likelihood of them becoming a victim. Reclassification demonstrates a recognition within Government of the scale and impact of these crimes and is critical to establishing a common understanding among businesses of what the threats are and how they can be protected against,”

“Being aware of the potential threats is the first step towards managing and mitigating cyber security risks, which is one of the reasons why assessment and certification schemes are so important. The Government’s Cyber Essentials scheme, for example, provides a solid foundation of basic measures for enterprises of all sizes. The scheme provides a clear and accessible framework to ensuring an organisation takes cyber security seriously and is able to defend against the majority of threats. With Government initiatives, industry support and unique assessment tools there really are no excuses,”

[su_button url=”http://www.apmg-international.com/” target=”blank” style=”flat” background=”#df2027″ color=”#ffffff” size=”10″ radius=”0″ icon=”icon: arrow-circle-right”]Click here to find out more about APMG International[/su_button]

About Security Buyer

Security Buyer is the leading authority in global security content, delivering expert news, in-depth articles, exclusive interviews, and industry insights across print, digital, and event platforms. Published 10 times a year, the magazine is a trusted resource for professionals seeking updates and analysis on the latest developments in the security sector.

To submit an article, or for sponsorship opportunities, please contact our team below.

Rebecca Spayne picture 2025

Rebecca Spayne

Managing
EDITOR

Georgina Turner image

Georgina Turner

Sales
Manager

Afua Akoto image - Security Buyer

Afua Akoto

Marketing Manager

Read the Latest Issue

Follow us on X

Follow us on X

Click Here

Follow us on LinkedIn

Follow us on LinkedIn

Click Here

Advertise here

Reach decision makers and amplify your marketing

Advertise here

Click Here

Related News

Environfence

Noise-reducing 12K Envirofence by Jacksons Fencing

Noise-reducing 12K Envirofence by Jacksons Fencing installed at Travis Perkins’ new Coventry depot – A case study
TDSi

TDSi Launches UK GARDiS Installer Training

Integrated Access Control and Security manufacturer TDSi announces that it is offering a free Training Kit to individuals taking part…
ASSA ABLOY Door Group

Critical new foreword to EN 15269-2

ASSA ABLOY Door Group is drawing attention to a critical update in fire safety standards that significantly impacts the design…
Image provided by Netgenium

School Safety with new IP audio lockdown system

A Northwest primary school has invested in a new IP (Internet Protocol) audio lockdown system to improve the protection of staff…
Image provided by Gallagher

Gallagher Security unlocks more at The Security Event 2025

Gallagher Security is reflecting on the success of this year’s The Security Event 2025 held at Birmingham’s NEC from 8-10 April. 
Image provided by i-PRO

i-PRO Showcases Latest “Made in Japan” Innovations

At The Security Show (TSE), on stand 5/G55, i-PRO (formerly Panasonic Security), will showcase its brand new U-series range of AI….
Image Provided by Rhombus

Rhombus Launches Relay

Rhombus announced the launch of Rhombus Relay, a new suite of solutions that enable organizations to transform existing camera…
Image provided by Genetec

Nicholas Smith to Lead Genetec UK and Ireland Operations

Genetec, provider of enterprise physical security software, announced the appointment of Nicholas Smith as its new Regional Sales Director…
Gallagher Security

Gallagher Security empowers Channel Partners

Gallagher Security is proving its commitment to empowering its UK and European Channel Partners with the launch of its new Channel Partners..
Scroll to Top