Over a year after its emergence, the pandemic continues to impact us in unexpected ways.
Whilst crime reported in England and Wales fell by 8% for more physical-related incidents on average, we've seen cybercrimes skyrocket by 31%, as opportunistic criminals seek alternative methods of operating.
The closure of non-essential shops and prolonged lockdown are thought to be contributing factors to the 26% drop in thefts, which includes: 42% reduction in thefts from the person, 29% in shoplifting and 24% in burglary.*
For cases of online fraud on an individual basis, ticketing fraud for gigs and festivals naturally dropped by 69% due to the cancellation of events, with online shopping and auction fraud increasing by 38%.
Now that lockdown restrictions are easing, it's expected we'll yet again see a shift in criminal activity.
If you've made any alterations to your policies or business practices, we'd like to offer you our services and expertise.
One cybersecurity company claims that an estimated 3,445 businesses fell victim to cyber scams between September 2019 to September 2020, costing companies a collective £6.2 million and escalating throughout the first lockdown.**
When asked, one in eight employers say that the risk of cyber-attacks is deterring them from adopting digital technologies.
If you're looking to protect and grow your personal or commercial interests in 2021, you need to have the right policies in place that offer maximum peace of mind.
To speak with one of our insurance consultants, contact us today.
*BBC News
**Nexor