GIVEN the massive role computers and the internet play in our lives, cyberspace is rich pickings for modern criminals.

It’s therefore very concerning that Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner Anthony Stansfeld feels not enough is being done to tackle cyber crime.

He said: “I don’t think it is a very satisfactory system nationally. We should be putting a lot of money into countering it nationally because the loss to The Treasury must be huge every year.”

With computers and smart phones now very affordable, some of the most vulnerable people in society are at risk from the digital equivalent of a doorstop con.

Yet these offences are even hard to detect – a quick turn of the head can snare a pickpocket but many will not even know where to start when it comes to the hugely complex world of computer programmes.

We therefore seek assurances that cybercrime – which is tackled nationally – is being given enough investment to ensure people’s savings are protected and businesses can continue without interference by cyber criminals.

Last week we saw the devastating impact of flooding on the city as heavy rainfall blocked key routes in Oxford, hitting trade for many businesses and misery for homeowners.

Cyber crime is the digital equivalent of a natural disaster and though it may come with the click of a mouse, its consequences can be just as devastating.

We urge the authorities to give it the highest attention and our readers to always think before they click.