I always considered modding video games to be just a normal step in the progression towards becoming aware of the importance of programming skills, but I guess the witless wonders in charge of law enforcement in the UK see things differently!
PARANOID FANTASY:
This world can seem very seductive. Where you can make "friends" quickly and easily and you are praised for your skills, rather than being criticised for being a "nerd". But it is also a place where the vulnerable or naive can become criminals without quite realising what they are doing. The bad news is that suspects are getting younger. Seventeen is the average age, according to the National Cyber Crime Unit, but some are as young as 12.
REALITY:
Of course, all of this ignores that the vast majority of people who mod games or use cheat codes don't go on to become criminal hackers.
https://www.techdirt.com/articles/20170421/13435537210/uk-crime-agencys-latest-moral-panic-kids-modding-videogames-may-be-gateway-to-becoming-criminal-hackers.shtml