Young people & organised crime

CYBERCRIME

Criminal organisations and street gangs use the internet and social media to recruit young people. Cybercrime is often linked to other, more widespread criminal phenomena, but it can also be a gateway to a life of violence and gang crime. The internet and social media are also regularly used as marketplaces for various illegal substances and goods.

CRIMINAL ORGANISATIONS AND STREET GANGS

A recent survey studied gang membership among young people aged between 13 and 17 years. Young people in Sweden were the most likely to belong to a criminal organisation.

According to the survey, young people who belong to gangs are more likely than others to commit criminal offences such as theft, assault and drug dealing. Gang membership is more common among young people who have low self-control and little parental supervision. Young people who belong to gangs also often have pro-criminal attitudes.

Organised crime groups are sometimes called street gangs in Finland. Street gangs are more permanent organisations with a unique name or identity. Street gangs commit crimes in a systematic manner.