Shoeb Hakim
- Apr 11, 2019
- 1 min read

Dedicated cybercrime units get multi-million pound cash injection

Every police force in England and Wales will now have a dedicated cybercrime unit in place following a multi-million-pound investment from the Government as part of the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) National Cyber Crime Programme.

Forces were able to access £7 million of funding this year to build the cybercrime units – including recruiting specialist officers and staff to the units and investing in technology, equipment and training. Investment in the units by the Home Office and the National Cyber Security Programme will continue throughout 2019/20 and 2020/21.

The launch event was hosted by the new West Midlands Cyber Crime Unit, which has been in place since November last year. Mr Goodman heard from the team about the work it is now able to do, how it links with the regional network and what it means to local victims – both individuals and businesses.

Security and Economic Crime Minister Ben Wallace said: “While cybercriminals hide behind their screens, their actions have a huge impact on businesses and individuals. Being the victim of a hack can be frightening, embarrassing and costly. The new specialist cybercrime teams are a vital tool when it comes to preventing this type of crime, pursuing the perpetrators and protecting victims. Crime is changing and so must we. These cyber units, supported by Home Office funding, are a clear symbol of that shift.”