Mobile phones are a great way for parents to stay in touch with their kids wherever they are, and there are huge numbers of kids who have mobile phones for this very purpose. Mobile phone technology has come on in leaps and bounds in recent years with internet access, instant messaging and multimedia texting all available to a young audience. These developments have also come with their criticism as some worry that children will have access to inappropriate content and be at risk of being contacted by inappropriate parties. For worried parents there is some encouraging news as both mobile phone manufacturers and networks have taken these problems into account, resulting in many mobile phones and mobile services coming with built in safety features. Let`s look at some of the features available and ways to improve the safety of mobile use for your children.
Content Control
With 3G and Wi-Fi on some handsets allowing kids to access the internet on the go there`s the chance that they can view inappropriate content on their handsets without your knowledge. In order to prevent this many of the big networks like T-Mobile have been working in partnership with the NSPCC to lock off inappropriate content from younger mobile users. This means that content available from the network which is rated unsuitable for younger audiences will not be available to them, and though this is a completely free service you`ll need to set up the content lock yourself before you give the phone to your child. This is particularly important to remember if you`re giving them an old phone you owned that had no restrictions on it.
It`s also important to remember that children will still be able to access inappropriate content if it`s sent to them by a friend or other mobile users and the network will be unable to filter it. Like most situations the best solution is dialogue, and having a conversation with your child about what is inappropriate content to have and view on their phone will avert any conflicts later.
Mobile Locators
Some networks offer location services which passively monitor a child`s whereabouts based on their mobile phone signals. These services need the consent of both parties and can be stopped at any time should the child wish it, but it is an option for parents with more vulnerable children. Bear in mind that mobile phones get left unattended.
Avoiding Theft
Mobile phones are hugely popular amongst young people and an equally popular target for thieves. Talk to your child, let them know the risks about using a phone or leaving it in an unsecured location and explain that using a phone whilst alone on the street will leave them extremely vulnerable to criminal activity. Making your child aware of the risks is the best way to prevent crime, but you can also register your child`s phone with the police to that in the event of a theft it can be identified and recovered where possible.
