Cybercrime Investigation in England and Wales

: Analysing the Case Failures in Cyber Crime Units

Abstract

This research project addresses the key challenges facing investigators of cybercrimes in England and Wales. In particular, it aims at exploring the reasons behind the loss of cases during the investigation phase. The empirical study involved 24 Detectives working in various local, regional, and national Cyber Crime Units, and used semi-structured interviews. The key findings reveal deficiencies in reporting and recording systems, disparities in preparedness among agencies (Cyber Crime Units, Action Fraud, Digital Forensic Units, Crown Prosecution Service), and misalignment between the traditional Criminal Justice System setup and the nature of cybercrime. In addition, the reliance on third parties to conduct the investigation such as the dependence on victims' engagement throughout the investigation, reliance on private sector cooperation, uncertainty regarding the cooperation of law enforcement agencies in countries without prior agreements with the UK, contributes to the complexity of the investigation, therefore to the loss of cases. The outcome of this research contributes to the latest theoretical developments to the investigating cybercrime and practices. Some of the recommendations include improving the quality of reports through an interactive reporting system that enhances victim engagement and allows the exchange of information more freely and streamlined between the Detectives of Cyber Crime Units and personnel of the National Fraud Investigation Bureau. Another suggestion is to provide constant, comprehensive, up-to-date training and specialised knowledge in the field of cybercrime for detectives and legal professionals, along with investing in cutting-edge tools. To sustain the availability of such up-to-date training and necessary equipment, it is essential to maintain a continuation flow of funds. Additionally, there is a need to enhance collaboration and knowledge- sharing between local, regional and national agencies, taking a proactive approach to tackle crime that extends beyond borders.

Date of Award	6 Nov 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Portsmouth
Supervisor	Moufida Sadok (Supervisor), Christopher Gray Lewis (Supervisor) & Peter Bednar (Supervisor)