Police issue cyber challenge to teens

Young computer users in Sunderland are being invited to test their skills – and stay out of trouble online.

Northumbria Police are challenging tech-savvy teenagers to compete in a series of advanced digital challenges this month.

The Winter Cyber Challenge is made up of four different weekly tasks – ranging from coding to configuration– and offers contestants the chance to win a series of prizes.

It’ s hoped the ch allenge, available through social media – will help mitigate the risk of young people inadvertently committing cybercrime offences while online or actively seeking to disrupt online platforms by teaching them more about the Computer Misuse Act.

PC Steven Grain g er, from the North East Regional Special Operations Unit (NERSOU) says the new initiative is being coordinated by the national Crime Agency.

He said: “In my role I see many young people with very advanced cyber skills and expertise. “Unfortunately, a number of them can break the law by doing things like a denial of service attacks and part of my role is to get these young people harness their skills in an ethical and legal way. This is a huge priority for law enforcement as it’s important we educate people about what exactly constitutes as an offence so they can make the right choices and avoid falling foul of the law.”

To access the challenge, go to https://www.cybersecuritychallenge.org.uk/ home-page/winter-cyberchallenge