Preventing Young People from Getting Involved in Cybercrime
In contemporary times, it is safe to say we can hardly conduct certain activities without the help of the internet. This large network is a global system of interconnected computer networks that connect billions of devices worldwide. The internet eases communication as one can contact people in far parts of the world without having to be there. It also makes it easier for individuals to conduct business as well as keep in touch with loved ones. This innovation has also produced far-reaching implications for international relations and politics as it provides faster means of communication as opposed to the old days. Though this modern technology has contributed positive values to the world, its users become exposed to cybercrime as criminals have now migrated from the streets to this virtual platform.
Cybercrime simply means any criminal act dealing with computers and networks. The computer may be used as a tool in committing the crime, or it may be the target. Cybercrime takes various forms like Phishing, identity theft, malware attack, cyberbullying, credit card fraud, hacking and spamming. This menace is not just isolated to a particular part of the world but has become a rising global phenomenon. Cybercriminals employ more sophisticated means in conducting these crimes while evading the authorities. These cybercrimes are not only being committed against individuals and companies but also against law enforcement and government agencies as well. It has been observed that a very high percentage of youths are involved in cybercrime, and this is on the rise.
The alarming rate of youth involvement in cybercrime raises great concern. The reason most individuals engage in cybercrime varies, and are also dependent on a number of different factors such as financial gain, peer pressure, fame and revenge. A lot of these young ones do it for fun and are ignorant of the implications of their actions. It has also been argued that most of these youth do not have the opportunity to learn what the law prohibits them from doing. It should be noted that even though a high percentage of youth are engage in cybercrime, a certain number of them are victims.
NISSMUN 2017 theme: preventing young people from getting involved in cybercrime, provides the youth insight on the effects and dangers of cybercrime, and also educate them on measures to take to avoid becoming victims of these crimes. There is great need for carrying out awareness campaigns on emerging cyber threats and building their capacity to respond to these attacks in case they occur. Effective prevention is the only solution to minimize cybercrime which continues to grow in size and intensity. Parents, teachers, adults and care givers should work to teach our youth internet safety and also closely monitor their activities online, which have become part of their daily engagements. If we reduce the effects of cybercrime in our societies this will be a great achievement for us, and this will not just be a success for the peoples but for the world at large.
