Serious and organised crime is a major security threat to the UK. It causes devastating harm to communities, individuals, and the economy. Unfortunately, it continues to grow. 

To help the public understand the scale of such threats, the National Crime Agency published the National Strategic Assessment of Serious and Organised Crime for 2023 in July. It outlines some key threats to the country, including organised immigration crime, money laundering, child sexual abuse, illegal drug use, the use of firearms, fraud, and ransomware attacks. 

The distribution of this assessment aims to inform the public about the scale of these threats while also spreading guidance that helps the public stay safe and protect themselves from serious and organised crimes.

Organised crime rates

According to NCA Director-General Graeme Biggar, an estimated 59,000 people in the UK are involved in serious organised crime. This type of crime generates £12 billion in criminal proceeds annually.

Out of all the crimes listed, the largest category of offenders comprises individuals who pose a risk of sexual harm to children, estimated to range from 680,000 to 830,000 people. This figure represents approximately 1.3 to 1.6 percent of the adult population and ten times the size of the prison population.

This is mainly due to the wide availability of abuse images online, which normalises the behaviour of paedophiles. Viewing such images can increase the risk of individuals committing child abuse.

Online fraud is another major crime, more than 40 percent of total offences. About 75 percent of fraud is committed partially or entirely from overseas. To create convincing content, fraudsters use generative AI, such as deep fake videos and ChatGPT. This technology and other technology advancements like end-to-end encryption make it hard for law enforcement to detect and prosecute the people involved.

Illegal drug use is also a significant issue, primarily because it fuels crimes such as violence, theft, gun use, and modern slavery. According to police data, nearly 120 tonnes of cocaine and 40 tonnes of heroin are consumed annually. 

In January 2023, police in England and Wales started adopting a new approach to tackling serious and organised crime after early success in pilot areas. The approach significantly decreases burglaries, drug offences, and antisocial behaviour.  

Known as the “Clear, Hold, Build” tactic, this approach involves police ruthlessly pursuing gang members, maintaining a grip on the area, and working with the community to build resilience and reduce vulnerability to crime groups.

However, more is needed. Biggar pointed out that the NCA should create new approaches to tackle organised digital crimes in partnership with technology companies. 

“This is about responsible behaviour about designing public safety into their products alongside privacy, so that we all reap the benefits from technology, rather than suffering their consequences,” said Biggar in a speech.

Personal protection against organised crimes

High-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) are more prone to becoming targets of serious and organised crimes, as they have more to potentially exploit and are more visible to the public eye. Organised crime groups can utilise their resources and expertise to carry out complex and sophisticated attacks against HNWIs. 

For example, they can use surveillance to track HNWIs’ movements and identify their vulnerabilities. They can also use hacking and malware to steal HNWIs’ money and data. Other organised crimes targeting HNWIs can include kidnapping and ransom, extortion, fraud, and blackmail.

There are multiple ways HNWIs can protect themselves. First, be aware of the latest scams and fraud techniques. Then, be careful about whom you do business with and do not invest in schemes that promise high returns. Research companies and individuals before you give them any money or personal information. 

Do not share your personal information on social media. Organised crime groups can use your address, phone number, and travel plans to target you.

Lastly, invest in high-quality security agencies like Marengo. They can effectively protect your residents, vehicles, devices and internet networks, and yourself and your loved ones. As they have the right resources and experience, it is less risky than handling the organised criminals yourself.