Teen Cybercrime: The Alarming Rise of Sadistic Online Gangs in the UK
The UK’s National Crime Agency warns of sadistic teenage boys forming online Com networks, posing a growing threat. Operating on social media, these groups engage in cyber-attacks, fraud, and serious violence. Motivated by profit and notoriety, they exploit platforms young people use daily, with young girls often groomed into self-harm.
Hot Take:
It seems the UK has a new favorite pastime for teen boys: cyber-hooliganism with a side of sadism. Forget the football firms; these lads have traded in their cleats for keyboards, wreaking havoc from their bedrooms instead of the bleachers. Who knew teenage rebellion would evolve from sneaking out after curfew to orchestrating ransomware attacks?
Key Points:
- Teenage “Com” networks in the UK are engaging in severe cyber and physical crimes.
- These networks operate primarily on social media and instant messaging platforms.
- Activities range from cyber-attacks and fraud to extremism and child abuse.
- Incidents of these crimes increased six-fold in the UK between 2022 and 2024.
- The threat, while serious, is still predominantly from international actors.
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