A Scottish cyber and fraud triage service launched in July last year has helped 228 individuals caught up in online scams and cybercrime.
The Cyber and Fraud Hub – a charity that works closely with the banking industry, policing, and technology partners – has been involved with investigations worth £8 million in its first six months, new figures show.
The Hub – established by Cyber and Fraud Centre Scotland – helped prevent or recover £626,000 from being lost to criminals as a result of its operations.
According to the charity, the data highlights the growing demand for expert guidance in tackling cyber fraud, with the Hub playing a crucial role in safeguarding individuals across Scotland.
Alex Dowall, Cyber and Fraud Hub Co-Founder, said: “Since launching, we’ve seen first-hand the devastating impact fraud can have on individuals.
“Our team works tirelessly to support those affected by cyber-enabled fraud. These figures demonstrate just how essential our services are. While we are proud of what we have achieved so far, we know there’s still a lot of work to do.”
With fraudsters becoming increasingly sophisticated, the Hub’s support services have been a vital lifeline for victims.
By offering ‘clear, actionable advice’ and working closely with major UK banks, cryptocurrency trading platforms, third sector partners, and UK policing partners, the team has helped prevent substantial financial losses and provided critical assistance to those affected.
Beyond direct intervention, the Hub has also played an active role in raising awareness and educating the public about fraud prevention. The team continues to promote how to stay safe via free brochures, news and advice on their website and social media channels. Recent support included A Guide to Avoiding Fraud and Scams for Older People, and a series of how-to videos that help when a social media account is hacked.
Looking ahead, the Hub is committed to expanding its outreach, strengthening collaborations with strategic partners, and continuing to provide essential support to those at risk of fraud.
For anyone affected by fraud or looking for advice on protecting themselves or their loved one, visit the Hub website at https://cyberfraudhub.org or contact the free helpline at 0808 281 3580.