Cyber crime in Scotland has increased by 83% over the past five years, according to new figures highlighted by Victim Support Scotland.
The charity is raising awareness of the issue during Victims’ Awareness Week, which runs from 20th to 27th February 2026.
Latest Recorded Crime in Scotland data shows an estimated 14,120 cyber crimes were recorded in 2024/25. That compares to 7,710 in 2019/20, before the pandemic.
Cyber crime now represents at least 5% of all recorded crime in Scotland. It accounts for 27% of sexual crimes and 94% of recorded threats and extortion cases, most of which relate to sextortion.
Victim Support Scotland, which provides free and confidential support to people affected by crime, says legislation must keep pace with advancing technology.
Debbie Adams, Interim Chief Executive at Victim Support Scotland, said:
“Cyber crime is an area that is advancing at pace. The latest figures from the Recorded Crime in Scotland data paint a stark picture of the growing prevalence of cyber elements in ‘traditional’ crime types, like extortion, sexual abuse, and fraud. Legislation needs to be enacted swiftly to keep up.
“Victims’ Awareness Week 2026 is about raising awareness of how people can be impacted by cyber crime, and also encouraging action to tackle it.
“People might feel embarrassed or reluctant to come forward if they have been impacted by these types of crimes. VSS’ support is completely non-judgmental, compassionate and confidential, and you don’t need to have reported the crime to the police to receive support. I would encourage anyone who has been affected by cyber crime in any way, shape or form to reach out for support.”
Victim Support Scotland provides free support to victims, witnesses and families across Scotland, including in Renfrewshire.
Anyone affected by crime can contact the charity’s helpline on 0800 160 1985. The helpline is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm and Saturday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm. Support is also available via webchat at www.victimsupport.scot.