Fraud incidents in England and Wales reached a record 4.5 million in the year ending June 2026, marking the highest number since comparable records began in 2017. This figure, from the ONS Crime Survey for England and Wales, shows an 11% increase over the preceding 12 months.
The report also indicated a 23% rise in reported computer misuse, which includes hacking and malware, with an estimated 817,000 incidents in the year to June. In contrast, the survey noted continued decreases in both theft and violent crime, aligning with longer-term trends for these offences.
The increase in fraud was primarily driven by a 13% rise in bank and credit account fraud, accounting for 2.8 million incidents. Other significant fraud offences included consumer/retail fraud with 1.1 million incidents and advance fee fraud with 447,000 incidents.
The survey found that 7.8% of individuals in England and Wales were defrauded in the year to June. Women were slightly more likely to be victims than men, at 8.4% compared to 7.2%. Individuals in mid-life, those with degrees, homeowners, wealthy individuals, and parents were also identified as being slightly more susceptible to fraud.