New study examines police emerging science and technology trends
20/06/2025 | UK Government
The new Police Emerging Science and Technology Trends (PESTT) report commissioned by the Office of the Police Chief Scientific Adviser (OPCSA) and published by the Government Office for Science examines seven key trends across three time horizons (1-10+ years), assessing their potential opportunities for law enforcement and threats posed by criminal exploitation. As police forces integrate facial recognition, drones and artificial intelligence (AI) into operational practices, what comes next?
The report aims to enhance awareness and knowledge of technologies expected to impact policing, allowing forces to leverage immediate advantages and adapt to future advancements. It also considers how emerging technologies might be misused by criminals, emphasising the need for preparedness to ensure UK policing remains efficient, transparent, and effective. Developed with input from policing and technical experts, the report's insights are not predictions but rather anticipations of how trends may evolve.

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