GovWire

Ipsos UK were commissioned to undertake qualitative research to further understand victim experiences of cyber crime and both online and offline fraud, and the decisions taken to report these crimes.

Findings indicated that a lack of clarity on the distinction between cyber and fraud offences made it unclear which agency victims should report the crimes to. Those who perceived themselves as a victim of crime were more likely to report the crime they had experienced.

The impact of cyber crime and fraud on victims varied. Many victims reported lower-level anxiety and distress. However, a few victims reported much more serious effects that included post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and suicidal thoughts. Particularly for cyber and online fraud victims, experience of crime changed their behaviour online, leading them to adopt new protective behaviours or avoid activity such as online banking in the short term.

For this sample of victims, the main driver to report a cyber crime or fraud was compensation for the financial loss experienced, other factors also included a sense of civic duty, a desire to protect others and seeking justice. Low awareness of Action Fraud and its role in addressing such crimes was seen as a barrier to reporting to this organisation.

Most victims were not aware of support available to them and had not been offered support when they reported the cyber crime or fraud. Those who had received comprehensive support were highly appreciative of it, regardless of what the outcome of their case was.

This research was commissioned by the last Conservative government, and prior to 5 July 2024.