INVOLVEMENT OF MINORS IN CRIMINAL ILLEGAL ACTIVITIES IN CYBERSPACE: A PHENOMENON AND PRINCIPLES OF COUNTERACTION

Abstract

Cyberspace in the 21st century appears as a complex and contradictory
phenomenon: on the one hand, it opens up significant humanistic potential, on the
other hand, it can act as an instrument of control, repression and distortion of
values. In this space, the problem of the formation of the consciousness of a minor
acquires special importance, because it is here that their socialization, the
formation of moral guidelines and worldview take place. The conditions in which
a child grows - in particular, the environment of the family, state, society, the
influence of regional, cultural, informational factors - all this directly affects his
psycho-emotional and spiritual development. The world of modern technologies
and virtual communication requires society to adopt a new pedagogy of
education, based on the values of labor, knowledge, moral responsibility,
spirituality and service to the common good. In the digital age, it is extremely
important to develop in children the ability to think critically, perceive higher
ideals, understand historical heritage, cultural continuity of generations and
national identity. Without support from adults – through example, mentoring,
dialogue and meaningful presence in a child’s life – words and abstract appeals
lose all power. That is why the educational and upbringing process should include
moral, ethical and spiritual components aimed at forming stable models of lawful
behavior, the ability to distinguish good from evil, critically interpret information,
and resist the destructive influences of cyberspace. The key task is to develop in
adolescents an active civic position, the ability to self-realize through useful
activities and creativity. The use of modern information and communication
technologies should serve not only as a source of knowledge, but also as a tool for
education based on the examples of moral authorities, outstanding personalities,
and leaders of the nation. It is important to create humanistic digital content that
promotes the ideas of goodness, responsibility, hard work, empathy and
leadership in serving society. Cyberspace should become a space not only for
information interaction, but also for moral growth, spiritual integration, and the
formation of a personality capable of making a conscious contribution to the
development of both the national and global community. Only under the
conditions of such an approach will we be able to raise a generation of highly
developed, responsible and spiritually rich people.
The article identifies the key parameters of the criminological phenomenon of involving minors in criminally illegal activities in cyberspace. Its basic
determinants are clarified and proposals are formulated regarding the principles
of countering their reproduction.