Government urged to take decisive action over online safety bill

Fraud prevention service, Cifas is urging the Government to take action as cases of fraud continue to rise – raising concerns that 2023 may see the highest ever levels of fraud recorded.

Latest figures reveal that there were over 309,000 cases recorded to the Cifas National Fraud Database, up 17% when compared to the same period in 2021. Identity Fraud remains a serious concern, accounting for 68% of cases filed to the Cifas National Fraud Database. Cases rose by 34% in 2022 when compared to the previous year, with the majority of identity fraud cases (86%) applied for online.

As the cost of living crisis deepens, there is concern that a growing number of people may become victims of phishing campaigns and online fraud aimed at stealing financial and personal information.

The latest Cifas research has revealed that more than 7 out of 10 people have been targeted by scams such as false discounts from energy and insurance companies, as well as online adverts offering shopping discounts and ‘celebrity endorsed’ bogus investments opportunities. In addition, social media platforms are being abused by criminals to offer fake opportunities to work from home and make money quickly. These adverts are specifically aimed at those struggling financially as a result of the ongoing economic uncertainty and – in particular – single parents. 

With the Online Safety Bill due to return to parliament on Monday 5th December, Cifas is urging the Government and all politicians to put party politics aside and ensure that the Bill passes within this parliamentary session. Failure to do so could result in the Bill being lost forever along with the opportunity to protect the most vulnerable from fraud and wider harms online.

The Bill will enable regulation of social media and search engine platforms, including requirements to more effectively combat fraudulent paid-for-adverts and user-generated content.

Mike Haley, CEO of Cifas, said “The large majority of fraud and financial crime starts online, and the increasing use of digital technology has led to greater opportunities for criminals to commit fraud. If we are going to respond effectively to these new and emerging fraud threats, it is crucial that we keep pace with the ever-evolving methods of fraudsters.”

“I am pleased that the government at last recognises that social media platforms and search engines must take greater responsibility for protecting consumers. The Online Safety Bill is a one-time opportunity to protect millions of consumers from fraud, and as criminals continue to take advantage of people struggling with the cost of living crisis, the Government now needs to ensure that the Bill gets over the line.”