New statistics released by YouGov in September 2025 have revealed that a significant number of Britons hold the belief that violent crime in London is on the rise. However, this perception is in stark contrast to official Metropolitan Police data, which shows that crime rates in the capital have actually been decreasing.
The disconnect between public perception and recorded statistics highlights a growing concern regarding the adoption of smart video camera technology in the UK. While all 43 police forces currently use body worn cameras, not all have implemented smart camera systems, despite their potential role in crime prevention. Many major cities, however, have already implemented such technology.
Speaking on the issue, Line Bang Riecke Hjardemaal, Sales Director for UK and Western Europe at video technology company Milestone Systems, emphasized the potential for smart cameras to create safer cities. “Modern technology has given us the tools to predict and prevent crime through the use of video surveillance,” she said. “Whether it’s police forces using cameras to monitor behaviors and intervene early, or cities tracking footfall and vehicle use to adapt plans accordingly, the opportunities for smart technology to reduce crime are vast.”
Hjardemaal also addressed the public’s perception of rising crime rates, stating that it could be fueled by a rise in visible crimes such as phone snatching. While overall crime rates have decreased, the prevalence of phone theft in particular has been on the rise. In fact, London accounts for a significant proportion of all phone thefts in Europe, with 42% of all incidents occurring in the city.
In response to the increasing occurrence of phone theft, a majority of the British public (55%) support the implementation of CCTV systems in all public spaces across the country. This type of crime is often highly visible and frequently goes unsolved by police, contributing to the public’s perception that crime is on the rise.
Hjardemaal concluded by emphasizing the importance of implementing smart camera systems in British cities to prevent crimes against individuals. “The UK is a very safe place, and people should feel safe and secure in major cities without fear of becoming a crime victim,” she said. “Implementing smart camera systems is an effective, affordable, and straightforward way to help prevent crimes and make British cities even safer.”
