Devon and Cornwall Police is offering young people interested in the cyber industry a free course to help them stay safe – and on the right side of the law.

The police force said the free session would give young people “the tools they need to avoid getting involved in unlawful computer activity or becoming a victim themselves”.

It said the session would educate students of all ages about legal and illegal cyber activities and raise their awareness about offences covered by the Computer Misuse Act.

Det Con Tamsyn May, from the Digital Capabilities Unit, said young people interested in the cyber industry needed to be “encouraged to develop their skills and curiosity”.

However, she said it was “important” to educate them on key topics so they did not become involved in cybercrime.

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said the course focussed on “cyber-dependent crime” – criminal activity which could only be committed using technology.

They said the session was aimed at students with “a particular interest in the cyber industry and those likely to pursue a career” in it.

People looking for tips on online safety should look for an alternative course, the spokesperson said.