Met Police - Cyber Choices
Empowering Safer Digital Choices
Technology is a central part of our pupils' lives, offering endless opportunities for creativity and learning. However, the line between technical curiosity and illegal activity can sometimes be thin.
The Metropolitan Police Cyber Choices program is designed to help young people understand the Computer Misuse Act 1990 and the consequences of cybercrime. By identifying those with high-level digital skills, the initiative aims to divert them toward positive, legal, and lucrative careers in cybersecurity and tech.
Why It Matters
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Legal Awareness: Helping students distinguish between "ethical hacking" and illegal activities.
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Future Opportunities: Highlighting how a criminal record can impact university applications and future employment.
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Positive Direction: Connecting students with industry-standard training and ethical pathways to use their talents.
We are committed to supporting our pupils in making informed decisions that protect their futures. For more information on how to stay safe and legal online, visit the official Cyber Choices website.
Metropolitan Police
CYBER CHOICES
Digital skills are a superpower. How you choose to use them defines your future.
The Wrong Path
Cybercrime is not a victimless crime. Under the Computer Misuse Act 1990, the following are illegal:
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Unauthorized Access Hacking into social media accounts, school networks, or private servers.
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DDoS Attacks Using "booters" or "stressers" to take websites or gamers offline.
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Malware Distribution Creating or sharing viruses, trojans, or ransomware.
CONSEQUENCES:
- • Police visit and arrest
- • Confiscation of devices
- • Permanent criminal record
- • Travel restrictions (e.g. US Visas)
- • Limited future career options
The Right Path
Your curiosity and technical talent are highly valuable. Use them to build, not break.
Cyber Security
Protect businesses and governments from actual criminals. Salary average: £50k+.
Ethical Hacking
Get paid to find vulnerabilities and help fix them legally (Penetration Testing).
Game Development
Use your coding skills to create immersive worlds and technologies.
Where to start legally:
Website Admin: This poster is fully responsive. You can embed this HTML directly into your school's "Online Safety" or "Computing" department pages.