Watchdog: hackers repeatedly breached UK police data suppliers

HMICFRS reported that hackers have repeatedly compromised third-party ICT suppliers holding British police data since 2021. The Police Digital Service recorded 252 cybersecurity incidents affecting policing in the first three months of 2026, plus 796 near misses. Most police supplier contracts lacked ongoing cybersecurity assurance.

• 252 cyber incidents and 796 near misses in policing in Q1 2026
• Most supplier contracts had no ongoing cybersecurity assurance requirements
• Policing and fire services were left out of the 2025 National Risk Register and Cyber Action Plan
• Inspectors called a major cyberattack on police a realistic scenario