New research suggests the cost of living crisis may be increasing crime with the better off most targeted.

Three in five (60%) wealthy individuals say they are worried about crime rising due to the cost of living crisis, according to research by insurer Ecclesiastical.

Of those who have suffered crime in the past 12 months, almost half suffered a theft (49%).

One in five HNW individuals reported experiencing trespassing (23%), home intrusions (20%) and criminal damage (20%).

The survey also found criminals were targeting home offices and second homes. Nearly two in five (39%) crimes experienced by HNWIs in the past year happened in home offices.

One in five (22%) happened at a second home or holiday home.

Use of social media platforms is also a concern for HNWIs, as two in five (42%) worry they overshare information about their home or lifestyle.

Ecclesiastical says HNW individuals should consider beefing up security, especially on home offices and second homes.

Sarah Willoughby, art & private client business director at Ecclesiastical, said: “As a result of the cost of living crisis, those who have more to lose are becoming greater targets for criminals.

“Our latest research shows the scale of the crime wave impacting Britain’s wealthy community.”

• The research was commissioned by Ecclesiastical Insurance and conducted by BVA BDRC. Online interviews were carried out between 5 and 12 December 2022 with 257 UK high net worth individuals with an income of at least £200,000 per annum or liquid assets of at least £1 million.