Keeping Kids Safe Online

Given the splendid summer weather we are enjoying at the moment, it is hoped that children are out in the fresh air enjoying their school holidays.

However, there will doubtless be times when our children turn to their tablets, smartphones and laptops to connect virtually with their friends and to enjoy a range of online activities.

So this article is a little prompt to parents and guardians, so that as a community we can be more proactive in helping to keep youngsters safe online.

The internet has become an essential resource for people of all ages, providing access to a broad choice of entertainment and information, literally on a global scale.

But its global reach is not without its dangers, as this website has sought to emphasise through our frequent warnings about online scams and frauds.

Children and young people may be particularly vulnerable, with the availability of highly unsuitable material and the risks of grooming that most adults will recognise.

The use by young children of smartphones and internet-connected tablets increases the risks that youngsters will come into contact with disturbing or highly inappropriate content.

If you feel rather ill-informed about the risks of internet use and would like to help your children or grandchildren to stay safe online, here's a very good place to start.