Cheshire Police urge parents to guide young people in safer online choices
Campaign aims to educate on legal versus illegal online activities.
Cheshire Police is encouraging parents, carers, and educators across the region to initiate conversations about online behaviour with young people as part of National Cybersecurity Awareness Month.
The initiative arises amid concerns raised by the National Crime Agency (NCA) regarding the prevalence of young people engaging in illegal online activities without fully understanding the implications.
Research has shown that one in five children aged 10 to 16 have reported behaviour that could be deemed an offence under the Computer Misuse Act 1990.
Supporting the national Cyber Choices campaign, Cheshire Police aims to help families distinguish between legal and illegal online activities while promoting legitimate opportunities for young people interested in technology and cyber security.
Stephen Blake, Cyber Prevent Officer at Cheshire Police, said: "Many young people are incredibly talented when it comes to technology, coding, and online platforms. In most cases, they're curious, keen to learn, and exploring their interests rather than setting out to commit crime.
"The challenge is that some online behaviours can quickly cross the line into illegal activity without a young person fully understanding the risks or consequences."
The police force's Cyber Prevent programme works to educate and guide young people before serious offences occur.
As part of Cyber Choices, the programme aims to inform young people about legal issues, the consequences of cyber offences, and channel their skills into lawful opportunities.
Throughout October, Cheshire Police will share advice and educational content on social media, including explaining the Computer Misuse Act 1990, differentiating ethical and illegal hacking, and encouraging safe online practices.
Parents are urged to engage with their children's online activities and discuss responsible digital behaviour.
Cheshire Police advises seeking guidance if a young person shows signs of risky online behaviour, such as attempts to bypass security systems or involvement in hacking forums.
A public engagement event on the matter will be held at the Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre on 29th October from 9 am to 3 pm, offering insights into the Computer Misuse Act 1990, online safety, cyber security careers, and support avenues.