Online Gangs Target Teenage Gamers

6 March 2015, 06:23 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

Capital's been told cyber criminals are recruiting teenagers who are using hacking gaming sites legally.

The East Midlands Cyber Crime Unit says the challenge sites are for learning hacking skills but using them outside of that could get you in serious trouble.

Martin Bates is the Assistant Chief Constable of Derbyshire Police:

'It's almost seen as a kindergarten or a training ground for people to use hacking for unlawful purposes.

'It's all well and good practising these skills because they can but if they're going to use them for illegal means, then it's a criminal offence.'

Cyber Lab

Capital's also been told that police in the East Midlands have got a bid in with the government to get a regional Cyber Lab. so detectives can track more criminals online.

Officers say whilst cyber crime isn't as high-profile as some crimes, it is still a threat.

Online experts, including the Assistant Chief Constable, will be at a Cyber Security 'Pop-Up Shop' at Derby Theatre today and tomorrow.

The experts will help shoppers keep their computers, tablets and smartphones safe.