Nottinghamshire Police Boosts Digital Safety With New Cyber Training for Officers
In a bold move to shield victims of abuse in the digital age, Nottinghamshire Police is rolling out new cyber safety training for its frontline officers.
Smart devices—like speakers, doorbell cameras, and mobile phones—might make daily life easier. But they can also become sinister tools in the hands of abusers. From covertly tracking someone’s movements to eavesdropping on conversations, the threat is real.
“Items including smart speakers, doorbell cameras and mobile phones can all be used by abusers to exert control over others.”
And the dangers don’t stop there. As more homes embrace smart tech, the darker side of digital innovation is becoming harder to ignore.
With this in mind, the force’s Cyber Protect and Prevent Officer, Mark Lonsdale, has stepped in to address the problem head-on.
“In response, Cyber Protect and Prevent Officer Mark Lonsdale has helped to devise an instructive training session and check list for use by officers when speaking with victims of domestic abuse, stalking and other offences.”
The goal? Equip officers with the know-how to identify when tech is being weaponised. It’s about more than just turning devices off—it’s about understanding how abusers exploit them.
The new initiative blends technical insight with practical steps, helping police spot red flags and offer better protection to women and girls. It’s a proactive strategy, shaped by rising concerns over digital abuse.
“From tracking movements to recording conversations, everyday items are increasingly being used by those with malicious intent to harass, bully and intimidate others.”
This isn’t just a tech upgrade. It’s a shift in how law enforcement responds to modern threats—particularly those hiding in plain sight.
And for victims in Nottinghamshire, it signals a clear message: the police are listening, learning, and taking action.