Scottish Police Reports 2,000% Rise in Crypto-Linked Crimes Since 2019

Police Scotland has reported a sharp increase in crimes involving cryptocurrency, up by 2,000% since 2019. The rise is linked to how quickly organized criminal networks turn to digital assets to hide illegal activities.

While the force’s 2025 report highlights this dramatic surge, it does not provide exact case numbers. It also admits that no unit currently exists to focus exclusively on crypto-related crime. Still, steps are being taken to improve how these offenses are handled.

Strengthening Scotland’s Crypto Crime Framework

Recently, the police adopted two advanced tools to help trace and track cryptocurrency transactions. These systems are expected to bring Police Scotland’s investigations up to par with those of other leading law enforcement agencies in the U.K. and beyond.

In addition, Police Scotland is working with the National Cryptocurrency Working Group. The group is developing a clear strategy for dealing with digital asset crime and creating training programs for officers. These programs will help them better understand crypto cases and serve as expert witnesses in court when needed.

Setting Precedents and Expanding Enforcement

A recent court ruling set a significant legal milestone in Scotland’s crypto crackdown. The High Court in Edinburgh approved the conversion of 23.5 Bitcoin seized from John Ross Rennie into $140,000 (£109,601) under proceeds of crime legislation. Rennie, who was described as the technical expert in a violent Lanarkshire robbery, was central to the case that set this precedent.

Building on this momentum, Police Scotland is preparing to launch a Cyber and Fraud Command to strengthen its approach to digital crime. The proposed unit aims to define clear responsibilities and align enforcement efforts with standards already in place across other U.K. regions.

Meanwhile, Scotland’s evolving strategy reflects a growing international focus on crypto-related crime. In Canada, for example, Ontario’s Niagara Regional Police Service recently teamed up with major crypto ATM providers to launch a public awareness campaign. Announced on January 21, 2025, the initiative features warning labels on ATMs to caution users about irreversible transactions and common crypto scam methods.

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