Over the next three years, Police Scotland will set up a dedicated cyber-focused division to tackle online crime, along with investing in artificial intelligence, data science, and new tech as part of an ambitious new vision for the force.

The new strategy forms part of the recently published Three Year Business Plan, which outlines over 130 milestones Police Scotland aims to achieve by March 2027, with the overall goal being ‘safer communities, less crime, supported victims, and a thriving workforce’.

Key points within the strategy include the creation of a cyber and fraud specialist division to enhance police response to cyber-crime in Scotland. The new unit will work with partner agencies throughout the UK to capture criminals using their ‘digital footprint’.

The police force also plans to harness artificial intelligence, data science, and analytics to identify patterns and anticipate where crimes are likely to occur, allowing for targeted patrols and interventions along with a broader understanding of emerging crime.

More controversially, the head of Police Scotland has suggested that the force is open to the use of live facial recognition technology utilising the latest AI. In a media briefing, chief constable Jo Farrell said it would be an ‘abdication’ of duty not to investigate how it might help identify suspects.

Farrell said: “What we have is a lot of data, we’re awash with data, and we need to use the latest technology to convert that so that we’re fighting crime effectively and able to operate as efficiently as we can. 

“Technology is important. We want to open conversations about live facial recognition, because these are all tools that will enable us to tackle crime and keep people safe.” 

Other major goals included in the report are investments within the Policing in a Digital World programme, which will enhance the capabilities of officers on the ground in pursuing cyber-crime, further development of digital forensic laboratories, and improving efficiency in back offices through greater use of AI.

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According to the force, key milestones already progressed include Police Scotland’s role in the implementation of Digital Evidence Sharing Capability, the contract award for a national roll out of body cameras to Motorola Solutions, and the establishment of a Mental Health Taskforce.

“The reform of policing in Scotland removed £200m from the annual cost base compared to legacy arrangements while improving service to the public,” said Farrell, “To strengthen the frontline, reconnect with communities, and respond to emerging threats when the outlook for public finances is challenging, we must progress the next phase of police reform.

“This is a positive and ambitious vision and plan for policing and, while we outline milestones taking us to 2027, our approach will remain flexible and subject to funding.”