Police have raised concerns that a new trend on social media is contributing to rising gang violence among young people in parts of London. According to recent reports, approximately 70,000 young people are involved in gangs across the UK. In particular, the Metropolitan Police has noted an increase in youth violence in Lambeth and Southwark, which it attributes in part to a dangerous online "game" known as "scoreboards." This trend, which is being addressed through Operation Gallium—a police initiative targeting organized street crime—has been described by officers as a factor in escalating tensions between rival gangs. Scoreboards are essentially online league tables where gang members track their activity, such as participating in fights, car chases, or even shootings. These actions are recorded and shared on social media, often with accompanying drill music that references "scoring" points. One undercover officer explained that the system functions like a "fantasy football league" but with real-world consequences. "If you’re active, you’ll be out stabbing people or starting fights and that scores points," the officer said, highlighting how the trend normalizes violent behavior as a means of gaining street credibility. The trend has been amplified by platforms such as TikTok, where videos often feature tally marks for violent incidents. Police warn that these scoreboards are used to taunt rival gangs, which can provoke retaliatory actions and lead to more serious violence. Paul Dayes, founder of the Exit Foundation, which supports young people affected by gang activity, called the trend "deeply concerning," noting that it risks reducing real violence to a competition and obscuring the human cost of such actions. He emphasized that this kind of content could pressure young people to engage in violent acts to gain recognition or respond to perceived slights. For parents concerned about their child's involvement in such activities, experts suggest looking for signs like sudden changes in behavior, increased secrecy online, unexplained money or possessions, or new friend groups. However, these indicators should be considered in context, as one sign alone may not be cause for alarm. If multiple red flags are present, it may be time to seek professional help. Experts recommend starting with a calm conversation, expressing concern without accusation, and reaching out to school officials or support services if needed. The focus should be on the child's safety and well-being, ensuring they receive the support they need without putting themselves in further danger.