Cyber crime can seem like an abstract phenomenon until you are affected by it. Direction for Bedfordshire recognise the evolving abilities of the internet and how easy it is to use your technical skills in a negative way.
We understand how the internet can be a fascinating place, and that at times curiosity and mental inquisitiveness can lead to unlawful activity. Direction for Bedfordshire want to promote channelling an individual’s technological intelligence into positive means. With an understanding of the law, service users can develop their talents and rebuild their lives.
Here’s some helpful documents and links on Cyber Crime:
Cyber Prevent Presentation for Young People
Cyber Prevent Presentation for Partners 2019
NCCU Guide to the Computer Misuse Act 1990
Do you want to be a Digital Defender?

Fearless
0800 555 111
Fearless is a site where young people can access non-judgemental information and advice about crime and criminality. What makes this site different is we also provide you with a safe place to give information to us about crime - 100% anonymously - you don't have to give any personal information.
Areas of Operation:
National

Cyber Prevent
Cyber Prevent aim to deter individuals from getting involved in cyber dependent crime, and prevent re-offending. They strive to continually understand behaviours and motivations behind offending. Cyber Prevent promote legal and ethical use of skills, including opportunities in cyber security.
Areas of Operation:
Bedford, Central Beds, Luton

Computer Misuse Act 1990
Following a high profile hacking of a mailbox belonging to The Duke of Edinburgh, the Computer Misuse Act 1990 was created to address the loopholes in the law and make it illegal to gain improper access to a computer. It was now an offence to access any computer to which you do not have an unauthorised right to use. Below is a BBC Bitesize link which explains the Act:
Areas of Operation:
National

Cyber-Dependent Crimes
Cyber-dependent crime can be defined as any crime that can only be committed using computers, computer networks or other forms of information communication technology (ICT). In essence, without the internet these crimes could not be committed. It includes such activity as the creation and spread of malware, hacking to steal sensitive personal or industry data and denial of service attacks to cause financial and/or reputational damage.
Areas of Operation:

#CyberChoices
To impress upon teenagers the severity of computer-related offenses, the NCA has created the #CyberChoices initiative. A program targeting parents of children aged 12-15, #CyberChoices seeks to highlight not only the criminal tools that teenagers unwittingly flock to but also what the consequences might be if their children are found to have violated the Computer Misuse Act.
Areas of Operation:

Stop It Now!
0808 1000 900
Stop It Now! UK and Ireland is run by The Lucy Faithfull Foundation, the only UK-wide charity dedicated solely to preventing child sexual abuse. We are here for anyone with concerns about child sexual abuse and its prevention. As a child protection charity, we work to prevent child sexual abuse by making sure adults know what they can do to keep children safe. Please get in touch if you’re worried about your own/another adult's/a child or young person's thoughts or behaviour, or want information on how to keep children safe offline and online.
Areas of Operation:
National