David Chadwick, the Welsh Liberal Democrat MP for Brecon, Radnor, and Cwm Tawe, is urging the UK government to establish a dedicated Online Crime Agency to combat the rising threat of online fraud.
Recent data reveals that online shopping fraud is costing individuals in Wales millions, with over 10,000 cases reported since 2021.
According to data obtained through a Freedom of Information request to Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime, online shopping fraud has become a significant issue in Wales.
In the 2023/24 financial year alone, 3,318 cases of online shopping fraud were reported, leading to a staggering £2,529,017 in losses for Welsh residents.
The average amount lost by each victim has also risen by 18%, with victims losing an average of £827 per case. The data also revealed that across the UK, over £154,000 is lost to online fraud every day, highlighting the severity of the issue.
The impact of online fraud is widespread across Wales, with various police forces reporting significant losses:
North Wales Police received 2,228 reports of fraud, amounting to losses of £1,474,801.
South Wales Police received 4,091 reports, with total losses of £2,645,610.
Gwent Police received 1,808 reports, with losses of £976,305.
Dyfed-Powys Police received 1,886 reports, with total losses of £1,504,280.
These figures paint a concerning picture of the scale of online fraud in Wales, with thousands of residents falling victim to fraudsters each year.
David Chadwick MP has criticised the previous Conservative government for failing to take action on online fraud, describing their response as inadequate.
He said, “Victims in Wales have been left short-changed and left vulnerable to opportunistic fraudsters. We urgently need action.
“The previous Conservative government completely failed to act. They were asleep at the wheel when it came to online fraud.”
Chadwick is now calling on the government to establish a new Online Crime Agency that would specifically tackle online fraud.
This agency would aim to provide justice to victims, hold perpetrators accountable, and free up police resources to focus on other community safety priorities.
