What you should know about malware

Hey, you there, read this!

Looks like you're interested in the digital world and in improving your cyber security skills.

That's great.

But do you know your limitations and responsibilities online? Here on the net, Finnish law applies, and the police monitor the net.

Know your responsibilities

Cybercrimes have consequences – to both you and other people!

By using malware (remote access Trojan, RAT), you may cause unintentional harm to others and lose the trust of your friends.

Cybercrimes are criminal offences punishable by law

You may sometimes find it hard to recognise that you are about to commit a cybercrime, but this does not exempt you from criminal liability. You may also find it difficult to predict the consequences of your actions. 

Here is an example of a cybercrime that may have far-reaching consequences:

• You would like to keep an eye on your car in the yard. To do this successfully, your car being within the range of your neighbour's security camera, you decide to install a remote access program (RAT) on this camera.

Finnish Police work to combat all forms of cybercrime across the network

Is it possible that you are about to commit a cybercrime? Keep in mind at least the following consequences that you may have to face:

• Criminal records: If you have a criminal record, you may have difficulties in applying for a job or a traineeship.
• Device: Your phone or computer may be taken away from you.
• Punishment: You may be sentenced to a fine or imprisonment.
• Compensation for damages: Compensations for damages can be large and affect your future plans for years to come.

The cybercrime you committed may cause serious damage to companies and social institutions. The consequences of cybercrime may result in blocking your personal gaming account or affect the entire society and its critical functions, such as the operation of telecommunication service providers and emergency numbers.

Improve your IT skills safely and legally

The Finnish Police encourage you to improve your IT skills as long as you do it safely and legally. Are you interested in information technology or other digital opportunities? 
Visit the following sites:

• Applying for cyber conscript training
• National Cyber Security Centre
• Next Gen Hack FI is the biggest white hat hacking challenge in Finland. A new challenge will be launched annually in the beginning of the year.
• Kyberturvallisuuskurssi – Kansalaisen kyberturvallisuus (a cyber security course for citizens). This course provides knowledge and skills in operating safely in the digital world.
• Cybercrime Exit – project run by National Bureau of Investigation about prevention of cybercrime committed by young people.

In cooperation