Young Internet Users Engaging in Cyber-Related Crimes: A Major Study Reveals Disturbing Trends
A recent study funded by the EU and conducted by the University of East London in collaboration with Europol’s cybercrime center has shed light on the alarming prevalence of cyber-related crimes among young internet users. The study, which surveyed 8000 individuals aged 16 to 19 across Europe, uncovered concerning behaviors such as money muling, digital piracy, and the dissemination of hate speech.
According to The Guardian, approximately half of the respondents admitted to engaging in activities that would be considered criminal in most jurisdictions. Spain emerged as the country with the highest proportion of “cyber-deviancy,” with 75% of young people exhibiting criminal or risky online behavior. In contrast, the UK ranked lowest among the nine countries surveyed, with 58% of respondents engaging in such activities.
The study revealed that a significant number of young internet users are involved in various forms of cybercrime. Thirty-four percent admitted to participating in digital piracy, while 27% confessed to engaging in online trolling. Additionally, 22% admitted to inciting violence online, 18% reported visiting illegal gaming marketplaces, and 12% confessed to acting as money mules—an offense with serious legal repercussions.
Research co-author Julia Davidson expressed concern over the normalization of cybercrime among young people in the EU, emphasizing the need for intervention and education to address this troubling trend. These findings were further underscored by Europol’s announcement of a major global police operation targeting money mules, resulting in the arrest of nearly 2500 suspects and the interception of €17.5 million in criminal proceeds.
The European Money Mule Action (EMMA8) operation, which expanded beyond the EU to countries such as Colombia, Singapore, and Australia, was conducted in partnership with 1800 financial institutions, money transfer services, cryptocurrency exchanges, fintech firms, and technology vendors. Europol identified a total of 8755 money mules and 222 money mule recruiters, hinting at the potential for further arrests and interventions in the future.
The study’s findings underscore the urgent need for proactive measures to address cybercrime among young internet users and safeguard the digital landscape from illicit activities. Education, awareness campaigns, and collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies and industry stakeholders are crucial in combating the normalization of online criminal behavior and ensuring a safer online environment for all users.