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SAFETY

2026 November 19, 20

Level: High

Cybercrime Against Teens

by Elizabeth Koroma

Be careful to protect yourself online

19

The internet is now a part of every aspect of life: work, school, recreation and relationships, and this is truer for teens than for adults. Technology has created ample opportunities for young people to learn about the world, meet new people and develop their own ideas. But not all internet users have good intentions, and adolescents can be easy targets for internet crimes. Awareness of the dangers of cybercrime can help keep everyone safe while they enjoy the benefits of technology.

  One of the most common types of cybercrime that teenagers face is cyberbullying. Social media enables young people to stay in touch with their friends outside of school, but it also allows classmates to harass them online. According to one study covering 30 countries, one in three young people has experienced cyberbullying, and one in five has skipped school because of it.

  Adults can also use the internet to take advantage of young people. Sometimes this takes the form of scams or attempts to access financial information to steal money. Other times, adults seek to manipulate teenagers. They may convince them to send inappropriate pictures or videos (which can then be posted elsewhere). In some cases, a victim agrees to meet up in real life and is then kidnapped.