NEW figures from NFU Mutual’s latest Rural Crime Report reveal rural crime cost Scotland an estimated £1.4 million in 2025 – up from £1.2 million the previous year.
The increase comes despite an overall reduction in rural crime costs across the UK, highlighting the continuing challenges faced by Scottish farming communities.
One of the biggest concerns has been the rise in thefts of agricultural vehicles, particularly quad bikes and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). These machines are a vital part of daily life for many Scottish farmers, especially those working across remote and upland areas where challenging terrain makes access difficult.
NFU Mutual said losing these vehicles can cause major disruption, leaving farmers struggling to carry out essential jobs such as checking livestock and maintaining land.
Livestock theft also increased significantly in Scotland during 2025, with costs more than doubling compared with the previous year.
Although livestock theft is a crime that dates back centuries, NFU Mutual warned modern cases are increasingly linked to organised criminals. The loss of animals can have a devastating impact on farming families, representing not only financial loss but years of care, breeding and investment.
Hannah Binns, Rural Affairs Specialist at NFU Mutual, said rural crime was becoming more organised than ever, with criminals prepared to go to extreme lengths.
She added: “Targeted investment in rural crime-fighting initiatives and industry collaboration with law enforcement is essential in responding to this relatively new threat, and it is helping drive down crime in many areas.
“However, the increased cost of rural crime to Scottish farmers shows that we cannot afford to be complacent, and that organised criminals will continue to find new ways to target farmers.
“The impact of rural crime extends beyond financial loss, undermining trust and connection, often leaving a trauma that can remain with farmers, their families and wider communities for a lifetime.”
The insurer said the rise in quad bike theft would be particularly felt in Scotland, where many farms rely heavily on ATVs due to the landscape and nature of upland farming.
NFU Mutual is part of the Scottish Partnership Against Rural Crime (SPARC), which brings together organisations working to prevent rural crime and protect countryside communities.
Nick Turner, Chief Executive of NFU Mutual, said the company had invested more than £500,000 into rural crime initiatives, including support for specialist crime units.
He said: “For more than 20 years, NFU Mutual has called for a stronger response to rural crime, and we know the financial and emotional toll it takes on farmers.
“As a mutual, our support goes beyond paying claims.”
While Scotland saw an increase, UK-wide rural crime costs fell by six per cent, from £44.1 million to £41.5 million.
NFU Mutual said the figures show the importance of farmers, police, insurers and rural communities continuing to work together to tackle organised criminals targeting the countryside.
