Mobile phones & child safety

The Internet can now be accessed on most mobile phones so there are potential risks to children who use phones. These risks include accessing adult content, such as pornography and “stranger danger” contact in chat services.

Mobile providers in Australia recognise these risks and have taken steps to help protect children from potentially harmful content accessible via their mobile phone. You can also take steps to reduce the potential of your child receiving an unexpectedly high bill in association with their mobile phone service. These include blocking international calls and premium rate services.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority in collaboration with the children’s internet charity, Childnet International, has published a guide which gives a checklist of important questions to ask your provider when purchasing a mobile phone. This will ensure that you have the tools and support to help protect children and make sure they get the most out of using their mobile phone.

This guide can be found at http://www.acma.gov.au/WEB/STANDARD/pc=PC_100694