Emerging and other threats

The opportunistic and entrepreneurial nature of many organised criminals means they can be involved in a variety of crimes at any time or in quick succession. There’s also a seasonal factor for some criminal activities.

Regional or local factors may also make a particular activity more or less of a priority for action for a police force or other local agency. In addition, the changing economic climate impacts on the profitability, and therefore attractiveness, of some crimes.

All of which means that the threat level of certain criminal activities, such as armed robbery, is subject to change. In addition, new threats are likely to emerge.

Current emerging threats

Increased world demand for metals, plus speculative investment has led to high prices – and targeting by criminals. Metal theft is currently estimated to cost the UK economy £360 million a year, though so far there’s little evidence that established organised criminals are involved.

Also on the increase is crime associated with high value communications software, such as data routers. As well as the monetary cost, this can affect the ability of the emergency services to function.

Find out more about emerging threats now

For further information, take a look at the emergency threats section of the UK Threat Assessment (765.62 kb PDF)

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