1 in 5 Youth Engage in Cybercrime, NCA Finds

A National Crime Agency report highlights that 20% of UK children aged 10–16 have participated in potentially illegal online activities, including unauthorized access, cyberbullying, copyright infringement, and gaming-related offenses such as DDoS. The report urges increased education, awareness, and constructive digital engagement, encouraging parents and teachers to discuss legal and ethical online behavior and to guide tech-interested youth toward positive pathways and careers. Quotes from NCA leadership reinforce the message that even unintentional cyber offenses carry serious consequences and that support and guidance are available.