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More than 1,150 cases have been referred to the National Crime Agency (NCA)’s Cyber Choices scheme in the last eight years – nearly 600 of those were in the last three years.<\/p>\n
Authorities warn teenage hacking groups are playing an increasingly prominent role in serious cyber-attacks.<\/p>\n
Young, English-speaking hackers have been linked to attacks on major organisations including Transport for London (TfL) and MGM Grand in 2024, and Marks & Spencer and the Co-op in 2025.<\/p>\n
Individuals are also being increasingly targeted in hacks for their cryptocurrency holdings.<\/p>\n
“It certainly has become more of a problem,” said Paul Foster, who leads cyber prevention work at the NCA.<\/p>\n
“Certainly English-speaking, Western world individuals that we know are now more active in cyber-crime.”<\/p>\n
He said young people were engaged with online activity and devices at increasingly young ages exposing them to criminal communities and influences.<\/p>\n
Police say many young offenders do not initially set out to become criminals. <\/p>\n
Instead, they often begin by experimenting with technology, testing systems or trying to bypass restrictions before becoming drawn into online communities where hacking is encouraged.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n