The UK Government is set to unveil an expanded fraud strategy later this year, with a strong emphasis on tackling the growing threats posed by artificial intelligence (AI). Fraud minister Lord Hanson will outline the new approach in a speech at the Global Anti-Scams Alliance summit in London, where he will highlight how AI is fuelling increasingly sophisticated scams.
The strategy, part of the Government’s broader Plan for Change, will focus on key areas such as data sharing, international co-operation, and the evolving risks from new technologies. According to the Home Office, the initiative will also involve collaboration with private industry, increased measures to combat fraud against businesses, greater public awareness, and enhanced support for victims.
A changing threat
Speaking ahead of the summit, Lord Hanson stressed the need for an adaptive response to modern fraud tactics.
“Fraud has changed and so too must our response. Fraud is an increasingly international enterprise run by some of the most appalling criminal gangs operating in the world today. That’s why we are determined to work with global partners to build a united front to tackle these criminal networks head-on, wherever they are based.”
Authorities have raised concerns over how AI is being exploited by fraudsters to create convincing deepfake scams, generate highly personalised phishing attacks, and automate large-scale fraud operations. AI-driven scams have contributed to a significant rise in cybercrime, with fraud and cyber offences now accounting for half of all online crimes in the UK.
Strengthening data sharing and law enforcement
A key element of the new strategy is accelerating the development of data-sharing measures between public and private sectors to improve fraud detection. The Government aims to implement systems that will “stop, block and disrupt” fraudulent activities before they reach potential victims.
Additionally, the use of AI within law enforcement will be expanded to help police and prosecutors cut down on administrative work, allowing them to focus more on tracking down fraudsters.
International co-operation and UK leadership
The strategy also places a strong emphasis on global collaboration to tackle the transnational nature of fraud. In his speech, Lord Hanson will announce the UK’s leadership role in a global fraud summit, which will be hosted in Vienna in 2026 in partnership with Interpol and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.
International co-operation is seen as essential, given that many large-scale fraud networks operate across multiple countries, exploiting legal loopholes and weak enforcement in certain jurisdictions. By working closely with international partners, the UK aims to develop a co-ordinated response to combat these threats.
Rising fraud cases and the need for action
Recent statistics underscore the urgency of the issue. Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows that reports of consumer and retail fraud have increased by 19% in the year to June 2024, with fraud and cyber offences making up 50% of all online crime.
These figures reflect a growing concern that fraudsters are taking advantage of rapid technological advancements, targeting individuals and businesses alike with increasingly sophisticated schemes.
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A nationwide effort to tackle fraud
The Government’s expanded strategy will include a public awareness campaign aimed at educating people on recognising and avoiding scams. Ensuring victims receive better support is also a priority, with plans to improve reporting mechanisms and provide faster assistance for those affected.
The Home Office has reiterated its commitment to working closely with private industry, particularly in the financial and technology sectors, to develop stronger fraud prevention measures. Banks, social media platforms, and telecommunications providers will play a key role in identifying and blocking fraudulent activity at an early stage.
A future of innovation and vigilance
With AI evolving rapidly, both criminals and law enforcement are in a technological arms race. The UK Government’s new fraud strategy aims to stay ahead by harnessing innovative tools, strengthening partnerships, and fostering international co-operation.
As Lord Hanson prepares to present the proposals, the message is clear: fraud in the digital age requires a bold and united response—and the UK intends to lead the way.
