Cyber Crime… Cyber Choices

These days pupils have access to an abundance of material on the internet, that can guide and coach them on computer hacking. There are plenty of tutorials, videos, and free tools that they can use to practise their skills. At school they have access to a fully working network where they may try and practise what they have learnt.

It may be that your pupils are just curious and are looking to test their skills with no malicious intent. They may not completely understand the implications of their actions and might do something that seriously impacts the school network.

Other pupils may be looking to disrupt the school network just to be a nuisance, think of it as the modern-day equivalent of setting off the fire alarm!  They may also try and access their own data (or their friends) to change behaviour records or coursework grades.

Anyone (including young people) who commits cybercrime could face:

• A visit and warning from police
• A Cease and Desist visit from police
• Computers being seized and being prevented from accessing the internet
• A penalty or fine
• Being arrested
• Up to life in prison for the most serious offences

Cyber Choices is a national programme designed to reduce cybercrime, including illegal hacking of computers and networks, denial of service and the writing, distribution or deployment of malware. These are offences under the Computer Misuse Act 1990

The programme has four main aims:

1. Explain the difference between legal and illegal cyber activity
2. Encourage individuals to make informed choices in their use of technology
3. Increasing awareness of the Computer Misuse Act 1990
4. Promoting positive, legal cyber opportunities

Cyber Choices is co-ordinated by the National Crime Agency. They work with specific individuals who may be vulnerable to committing cybercrime, and divert them onto a more productive path by using educational visits, workshops and online training.

Anyone can refer someone they feel would benefit from working with the Cyber Choices team. Parents, teachers, social workers or police officers often make referrals.

Cyber Choices helps parents, teachers, or youth workers know what to look out for if they’re concerned about their child or a young person they work with.  You will be given advice on how to safeguard the young person and divert them onto a more positive path.

Please visit the Cyber Choices website for more information.