Calls for parents to help keep kids safe online

80% of kids worry social media isn't protecting them enough online.

Now the NSPCC who revealed these figures, are urging parents to fill the gap and talk to their children about what to be careful of when using the internet.

The findings also revealed that just 17% of parents talk to their child about changing the location settings on the apps and sites they use, which could leave them vulnerable to being targeted by online abusers.

Recent NSPCC research found that 80% of children think social media companies are not doing enough to protect them, making the role of parents even more vital in keeping them safe from online abuse. Sarah Burnett, a Middlesbrough mum, tells us why she always supervises her 6 year old when he uses the internet;

“To make sure he’s not accessing things he shouldn’t be at the moment, cause he’s quite computer savvy and it’s getting around things for him to be able to go online.

“It’s essential really, to keep them safe, keep them away from predators and bullying from other kids – all of it.”

Helen Westerman, Campaigns Manager for the North of England at the NSPCC said:

“Parents are the first point of call for a child when it comes to staying safe in real life and this is no different when it comes to their online life.

“Talking to your child and exploring their online world with them is the best way to keep them safe but it can be hard to keep up to speed with the internet and some topics can feel more difficult than others.

“Share Aware can help by giving parents the tools and confidence to have regular and informed chats with their child so they can get the best out of the internet.”