Redirecting Young Hackers

Teenagers with a talent for technology are being given a second chance by police, who are helping them use their skills for good instead of engaging in cybercrime.

Lucas, a 16-year-old from rural Cumbria, was caught hacking into his school's computers. Instead of being expelled or facing severe punishment, he was visited by PC Sam Cooper, a cyber prevent officer. Cooper's mission is to guide young people away from the dangers of cyberattacks and encourage them to use their skills positively.

The program, known as Cyber Choices, works with teenagers who have shown an interest in hacking, teaching them about the real consequences and harm caused by cyberattacks. It then provides them with positive encouragement and one-to-one meetings to divert their energy towards professional training and qualifications.

The Rise of Teenage Hackers

Authorities are warning that teenage hacking groups are playing a significant role in serious cyberattacks. In recent years, young English-speaking hackers have been linked to major attacks on organizations such as Transport for London and MGM Grand.

The National Crime Agency's (NCA) Cyber Choices scheme has seen over 1,150 cases referred to it in the last eight years, with nearly 600 of those in the last three years. The NCA believes that many young offenders do not initially set out to become criminals but are drawn into online communities where hacking is encouraged.

Neurodiversity and Hacking

Many of the young people involved in the Cyber Choices program have autism or are neurodiverse. PC Cooper notes that these individuals often have an affinity for computers but can struggle with social reality.

By providing them with a positive outlet for their skills and interests, the program aims to prevent them from becoming involved in cybercrime. While some critics argue that teaching cyber skills to young people who have already shown an interest in hacking risks making them more capable offenders, the NCA believes that the alternative would be worse.

Success Stories

The program has already produced success stories, such as Izak, a 21-year-old cybersecurity professional who was helped by the scheme after hacking into his school computers at the age of 15. With the right guidance, these young people can turn their talents into positive and productive careers.