A Night on the Front Lines with Nottinghamshire Police

Last night was unlike any other. Instead of my usual routine, I found myself in the passenger seat of a Nottinghamshire Police patrol car, ready to experience a night on the front lines as part of Nottinghamshire Police’s Public Observation Scheme. As an ambassador for the East Midlands Cyber Resilience Centre (EMCRC) and a cybersecurity professional, I’m always eager to understand how policing intersects with the digital world. This ride-along offered a unique perspective, revealing the challenges and complexities faced by our local officers.

While I expected to see the “action” side of policing – the blue lights, sirens, and rapid responses – I quickly learned that a typical shift is far more nuanced. We responded to a variety of calls, each requiring a different approach. There was the concern for a vulnerable individual, a complaint of antisocial behaviour to name a few – many more of a slightly darker side that I cannot go into. The officers navigated each situation with professionalism, compassion, and a surprising amount of paperwork!

One theme that emerged throughout the night was the growing presence of cybercrime. From online scams targeting vulnerable people for either extorsion or manipulation to reports of harassment and hate speech on social media, it was clear that the digital world is increasingly impacting the work of our local police force. The officers spoke about the challenges of investigating these crimes, often requiring specialised skills and resources.

This experience reinforced the importance of collaboration between the public sector such as the police and organisations like the EMCRC and private sector organisations like Collective Security. By working together, we can raise awareness of cyber threats, provide support to victims, and help businesses and individuals protect themselves. It was encouraging to hear how the EMCRC is assisting Nottinghamshire Police in their efforts to tackle cybercrime and build a safer community.

My ride-along was an eye-opening experience. It gave me a newfound respect for the dedication and resilience of our local police officers. It also highlighted the evolving nature of crime and the need for a multi-faceted approach to community safety. Cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue; it’s a crucial component of policing and community well-being.

As we navigate an increasingly digital world, it’s vital that we all play our part in staying safe online and supporting those who protect us.