Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP noted that while fraud figures were previously declining, recent data indicates a new high in fraud cases, especially online. He referenced factors contributing to this trend and highlighted the need for enhanced intelligence sharing between platforms and banks.
I am concerned about the rising trend of fraud, particularly online, with many factors involved. Will the Government look at taking further steps, including requiring enhanced intelligence sharing between platforms and banks, and better mandatory user identification on sites such as dating apps and online marketplaces?
I remind the House that under the last Government, Lord Agnew resigned at the Dispatch Box accusing the Treasury of having little interest in the consequences of fraud. A national fraud squad of some 400 new specialist investigators is being recruited by the National Crime Agency’s national economic crime centre working closely with the City of London police to protect the public from fraud.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not address specific steps for intelligence sharing or user identification on sites such as dating apps and online marketplaces, nor the overall rising trend in fraud incidence.
Changed Subject To Previous Government'S Actions
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP cited a study showing that more than two in five people over 50 had been scammed, losing an average of £2,000 each. She highlighted recent advancements in artificial intelligence making scams more convincing and realistic.
A study showed that more than two in five people over 50 have been scammed for an average of £2,000 in the last five years, with half losing their money permanently. With AI advancements leading to more convincing scams, what is the Home Office doing to protect people, especially the vulnerable?
Among other things, we are working closely with banking, telecoms, digital and tech sectors to improve systems and share data faster with law enforcement. Over 60 stakeholders from across industry are involved in the development of our new fraud strategy. Public communications, targeted support for the most vulnerable and AI are key parts of this.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not provide specific details on what measures the Home Office is taking to inform people about AI-driven scams.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP noted the Government's ambition to make the UK a global hub for the crypto industry, with constituents regularly engaging in crypto. He asked about the steps being taken to protect consumers and investors while allowing the industry to develop.
Many of our constituents are already regularly engaging with crypto. What assessment has the Minister made of the crypto sector, and particularly of the steps required to protect consumers and investors while ensuring that we allow the industry to develop?
Stability and security remain key to ensuring the health and growth of the UK economy; protecting investors and consumers is central to that. We are continually evolving our capabilities, including by working closely with industry partners to ensure that security is front and centre of the UK’s framework for the crypto sector.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not provide specific details on the assessment or steps taken in the crypto sector.
Response accuracy
Q4
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP highlighted that Facebook Marketplace is responsible for three quarters of the fraud on social media, questioning whether the Minister will take action against Facebook to clamp down on this issue.
Facebook Marketplace is responsible for three quarters of the fraud on social media. Will the Minister assure the House that he will take Facebook to task, in order to clamp down on that fraud and make sure that consumers are protected?
The Online Safety Act 2023 will require tech companies, including social media platforms such as Facebook Marketplace, to take measures to prevent fraudulent content on their platforms or face significant fines. Under the Act, the largest firms are required to do all they can to prevent fraudulent advertising from appearing.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy