Technophobe parents ‘put children at risk’

A Mori poll, commissioned by the Child Exploitation and Online Protection (Ceop) Centre, showed that about 80 per cent of children in the UK, aged between five and 15, are regular users of the internet.

But almost two-thirds of parents had failed to set adequate online controls, or did not have filters in place to keep their children safe, according to findings from independent regulator Ofcom.

The Ceop Centre has gone back to the 1950s by providing material which encourages parents to develop their skills in the online world.

The material provides practical advice on what children may be doing online, covers issues that are sometimes hard to discuss, and helps parents talk to their child about online worlds, a spokeswoman said.

Peter Davies, chief executive of the Ceop Centre and a senior police officer leading on child protection, said: “Technology has transformed people’s lives both collectively and individually.

“But too often we see examples of where the child is at risk because they make simple online mistakes – because they are lured in or push the boundaries too far and risk their personal safety.

“We all have a role to play and I want to encourage parents to engage with their child to help avoid these risks.

“I want to help them explore the online world with their child, to talk to them about how they are using the internet and, above all, do what parents have always done – think about safety from a practical point of view.

“We have collaborated with leading figures in the world of child safety to bring basic practical advice that is quick and easy to follow.

Home Office Minister Lynne Featherstone added: “The internet is a great tool for young people and can open their eyes to lots of opportunities but it’s important they understand the risks involved.”