Police launch cyber squad to target online crime in Yorkshire

Yorkshire’s biggest force is making a number of two-year appointments for a new unit set up to target the “rapidly expanding” network of technologically-savvy fraudsters, bullies, groomers and hackers.

The recruits – paid up to £28,389 and expected to be in position by the end of next month – will be responsible for providing tactical support and advice to cyber crime investigators as well as developing new technology and strategies.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Williams, West Yorkshire Police’s cyber-crime lead, said: “This area of criminality is rapidly expanding and the establishment of a cyber-crime team puts us in the best position to combat this emerging threat.

“The new team will be led by a detective inspector, who’s already in place, with a detective sergeant expected to be appointed shortly and six specialist support staff.

“The detailed knowledge provided by this team will significantly enhance our current expertise across all areas of cyber criminality.”

The recruitment drive coincides with a week-long campaign to raise awareness over the dangers of cyber crime.

It comes after a study by campaign group Get Safe Online found 58 per cent of people in Yorkshire had been victims of cyber-crime and were left feeling “violated” by their experience.

Statistics from the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) show nearly £11.5m was lost in West Yorkshire from internet-enabled frauds in the year to September 2014.

Police and crime commissioner Mark Burns-Williamson said: “There is a potential step-change required within policing and law enforcement generally to fully understand the scale and impact of technology-enabled crime.”

Assistant Chief Constable Geoff Dodd added: “Cyber crime can be seen as a faceless crime that occurs in an online world but the reality is very different.

“So much of our daily business now revolves around the internet, meaning this area of criminal activity is rapidly expanding and it’s essential we do everything we can to protect ourselves from the financial and emotional impact this crime can have.

“We are continuing to increase the training our staff receive to enhance our capability to investigate cyber-related incidents and unmask the faceless individuals that use the internet to prey on some of the youngest and most vulnerable members of our society.

“Education and awareness is also key to combating this crime.”

As part of the campaign, the force has set up a dedicated web page and is focusing on various aspects of cyber-crime, from online bullying and ‘trolling’ to commercial cyber-attacks, online fraud and internet grooming.

It is using Twitter to provide advice on steps people can take to protect themselves.