Police Scotland has unveiled plans for a specialist cyber and fraud division and to boost the relevant training within the force.
It has included the plans in its new Three-year Business Plan, citing a significant shift towards cyber and online crime, with the advances in technology creating new vulnerabilities.
The document says the cyber and fraud division will coordinate and provide an enhanced response in conjunctiuon with other law enforcement agencies and partners. This will be part of an effort to improve the integration of science, technology, data and innovation in policing.
Cutting edge tech
“We will increase our investigative capability with improved use of cutting edge technology, building our future respond through cyber and online training for the workforce and availability of support and guidance,” it says.
This will come with an investment in areas such as digital forensic laboratories and AI policing products, more cyber and online training for the workforce, and the creation of a digital and data innovation product team.
“Almost all crime already has a digital footprint – and this footprint will grow, increasing the need for every policing function to harness technology and data,” the document adds.
“Cyber and online skills and resilience will be embedded into the organisation, providing our workforce with training to enhance the investigation of online crimes in all its forms.”
Tackling crime through a cyber and intelligence led capability is one of the prime features of a digital strategy for Police Scotland published in August of last year.
