How to keep your children safe online

There are numerous devices that connect to the internet, including games consoles, tablets, smartphones, televisions – and, of course, computers.

So, how do you go about making sure your children stay safe on the internet?

Steps to stay safe

The first thing to do is look at your router. Many new routers have parental controls that enable you to specify categories, then block those categories you don’t want your children to have access to.

I recently tested Netgear’s new range of routers with parental controls, and found them to work very well – so much so that I’ve started using one on my own home network, to protect my two girls.

Of course, no filter is perfect. If a website hasn’t been categorised – or has been incorrectly categorised – it may slip through the net.

Check settings on phones and other devices that connect independently of your household router, as these won’t be filtered.

Explain to your children the importance of not adding strangers on messaging services and social networks, as people aren’t always who they appear to be.

Cyberbullying: what it is, and how to avoid it

Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place through any sort of technology – from mobile devices to social networks. It involves individuals – sometimes known as trolls – saying abusive or controversial things to provoke a reaction from their victim.

Most social sites enable you to report abuse, and to block individuals who are making negative or hurtful comments. Encourage your children to talk to you if they think they’re being bullied.

There are a number of helpful websites designed to educate children, young people – and parents – on the dangers of the internet, including www.thinkuknow.co.uk and www.saferinternet.org.uk.