Multiple UK-focused reports say fraud and scam losses are increasing, with some criminals using artificial intelligence to target victims more effectively. The BBC reports that, on average, nearly eight cases of fraud in which money is stolen are reported in the UK every minute. Other outlets referenced in the same coverage say UK investment fraud losses exceed £220 million over the last year, according to a trade body. The Guardian also cites figures indicating consumer losses from financial fraud hit a four-year high in 2025. The Financial Times reports that banks see a rise in fraud cases after new refund-related rules take effect. Reuters similarly links the increase in fraud cases to changes in refund rules, while noting broader concerns that fraud remains a national security threat. Separately, a fintech source says criminals steal close to £1.3 billion, underscoring the scale of losses involved. Across sources, the key theme is rising financial harm from fraud and scams, alongside concerns that AI tools are being adopted to facilitate or scale criminal activity.