Keeping Children Safe Online at Home

We know it's difficult to keep up with new technology and effectively protect your child in the ever-changing digital landscape, but rest assured, there are powerful tools available to help you secure their online experience at home.

So before we start here are a few things that need to be corrected, if you haven’t done so already

1. The pull-out card in the back of your router with all the admin passwords on needs to be out of sight of your child

2. The passwords need to be changed from their defaults

3. If every household family member shares a laptop/desktop then everyone in the house needs their own login

4. Does your child know your passwords? If so then change them

Start by securing your whole house hold's internet connection:

Leverage Your Broadband Supplier's Controls: Your broadband supplier (ISP) often provides free, easy-to-use parental controls. These tools can block specific websites, filter inappropriate content, and set time limits across devices. Call them or log into your account to activate this crucial first step. A list of popular Internet Providers with Parental Controls are listed below with instructions of how to set them up.

Install a Safe DNS Service: Consider configuring your home router to use a safe Domain Name System (DNS) provider (like OpenDNS Family Shield or Cloudflare for Families). This adds an extra layer of defence by automatically filtering out known malicious or adult content before it reaches any device in your home.

Ensure every personal device your child uses is configured for safety:

Use Built-in Mobile Parental Controls: For phones and tablets, the best defence is the device's own software. Use Apple Screen Time (iPhones/iPads) or Google

Family Link (Android). These tools let you:

• Filter web content and set age-appropriate restrictions.

• Require your password for all app downloads and in-app purchases.

• Set strict screen time limits and 'downtime' hours.

Account Control on Laptops & Desktops: Always set up computers so the parent's account is the sole administrator. Create a separate standard user account for your child. A standard account prevents them from installing unauthorized software, changing security settings, or bypassing controls without your approval.

Remember: Communication is Key 

While technology provides excellent filters, the best protection is still open communication. 

Talk regularly with your children about their online activities and encourage them to tell you immediately if they encounter anything that makes them uncomfortable.