13% of children would attempt to hack a website simply for a dare, whereas only 8% of parents are concerned that their children could be hacking websites or online accounts. According to a case study, one 12 year old became a hacker to leak school data and show off to his friends
New Kaspersky research has revealed that only 8% of parents are concerned that their child could be hacking websites or online accounts, despite 1 in 10 children (9%) under 17 reporting they believe they could do so successfully.
The survey shows that parental concern for their child's online activities remains worryingly low, with only 11% believing that their child is capable of hacking online content. Even more alarming is the fact that 13% of children say they would attempt a cybercrime such as hacking a website simply for a dare and 18% believe they can easily purchase illegal items online.
Anonymous under 17 year old commented “I got into hacking in a different way to most kids my age who usually start by experimenting with cheats on games. I was just 12 years old when a friend I had got to know online told me about an interesting program he was using to hack phones.
“To hack all you need is access to a half decent device and a connection to the internet. I was given my computer for schoolwork, but mainly I just use it for hacking. At first, I started to search YouTube for “how to create viruses” and while on there I realised how easy it was to find all sorts of tutorials for hacking websites, or creating viruses. My friends thought I was amazing. I loved the feeling of that, so I carried on breaking into the school records and sharing them online. It was just a bit of fun.”
A victimless crime?
The research highlights the fact that, not only are parents underestimating their child’s online abilities, but there is a misconception among both children and adults that hacking is a victimless crime and should be taken less seriously than a physical offence.
While the majority of children (59%) say they would feel guilty about taking money from their parent's wallet or purse, significantly fewer (29%) would be concerned about using a credit card online without permission. Moreover, parents are more worried about their children engaging in physical altercations on the playground (12%), than the possibility of them becoming cyber hackers (8%).
“The reality is that an increasing number of children are being exposed to online hacking groups, with the potential for these groups to lure them into illegal activities,” said David Emm, Principal Security Researcher, Global Research and Analysis Team, Kaspersky. “Hacking an online account may lack a physical touchpoint, but the consequences can be severe, for example disrupting business operations, governments, or vital public services such as hospitals. On top of this, this behaviour can unknowingly expose children to age restricted content or illegal goods, such as firearms and drugs, without them ever having to leave their bedroom.”
Dr. Kelli Dunlap, Clinical Psychologist and Game Designer, stated: “one of the reasons so many hackers are children is because hacking is fun. Those little bits of mischief or trespassing can be entertaining, especially when their peers are doing it too. Also, as the need for social acceptance becomes really strong, especially in early teens, and many will just go along with the crowd especially if their friends are doing it” stated “One of the strongest protective factors against hacking is when kids know what’s expected of them, that their actions have consequences, and they know what those consequences are.”
“It’s important to have an honest relationship with children and provide information to help keep themselves safe. However, parents should approach the situation with curiosity and openness, rather than making assumptions or passing judgment. How we talk about these challenging topics is extremely important, even more than the specific words themselves. Anger or accusation will almost always result in the child shutting down, becoming defensive, or driving them towards the thing they caregivers are trying to protect them from.” she added.
Lack of parental control
The research also shed light on the inadequate safeguards put in place by parents. Less than half (44%) of parents admit to implementing age restrictions on their child's devices, and a mere 32% report they are aware of who their child interacts with online via their laptops.
Kaspersky is urging all parents to take immediate action to address the issue of child hacking. It is crucial for parents to understand the gravity of online hacking and its potential consequences. Implementing age restrictions on devices and actively monitoring their child's online activities are essential steps in safeguarding against the risks associated with child hacking.
The responsibility to protect children in the digital age falls on the shoulders of parents, educators, and society as a whole. By fostering open conversations, providing guidance, and staying informed about the online world, we can collectively create a safer environment for our children.
Methodology: The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 506 12-17 year olds in the UK. The data was collected between 31.05.2023 – 02.06.2023. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct which is based on the ESOMAR principles.
