In 2023/24, the most common types of cyber crime in Portsmouth were:

  • Online bullying or harassment – 34%
  • Malicious messages – 30%
  • Stalking – 10%
  • Sexual offences – 8% (including about 60 cases with indecent images of children)

Most victims were women under 45. When the suspect was known, it was usually someone the victim knew – often an ex-partner or acquaintance.

Even though cyber crime is common, only 13% of people reported it to the police. This means many cases go unreported.

What we’re doing

The Community Safety Partnership is working to:

  • Raise awareness
  • Support victims
  • Encourage people to report crimes
  • Prevent problems early and help people stay safe online