UK teens engage in cyber crime

Over 10% of people aged between 16 and 19 in the United Kingdom say that they know at least one person who has been involved in cyber crime.

This is according to a survey published by security software vendor Kaspersky Lab, which was commissioned for Safer Internet Day; an occasion to promote safe and responsible use of online technology by teenagers.

The research also claimed that more than a third of those who responded would admire a friend who managed to hack into a bank’s website and upload a cartoon in place of the home page. Further, 10% said that they would admire a friend who hacked into a local airport’s traffic control system.

A recent study by the National Crime Agency revealed that cyber criminals are now at an average age of just 17, although it is believed that some are unwittingly engaged in illegal activity.

Kaspersky Lab security researcher David Emm said that there needs to be more understanding and awareness of how young people are using the internet.

He added:

“It’s frighteningly easy for teenagers to find their way into the dark corners of the internet today as they explore and experiment or take their first steps towards making some easy money online by searching for tools and advice.”

This only shows why it is so important for young people to be trained in cyber security in order to keep up with those who are utilising their skills for criminal activity. It is also vital for startups, as well as established companies, to offer cyber security jobs to those with the necessary skills to protect their systems and data.