Teens hacking social networks

Security experts have warned that Britain is breeding a generation of hackers, with four in 10 teens admitting to hacking social networking profiles.

One-third of teens questioned by security firm Trend Micro also admitted to being tempted to try hacking or spying online if there was money on offer.

Teenage boys are more likely to hack a social networking profile whereas girls were more likely to get into online shopping accounts and even bank accounts without permission.

"These results come as a stark warning to parents become a lot more familiar with what their kids get up to when online – especially as we’re about to go into the Easter break," said Rik Ferguson, security expert at Trend Micro.

"Parents need to ensure they lead by example at all times, clearly but appropriately lay down some simple family guidelines and make sure they oversee the online activity without being obviously intrusive," Ferguson continued.

Though the findings of the survey suggest that some teens see hacking as something to aspire to, cases such as that of Gary Mckinnon could be argued to have the opposite effect.

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