Help for Cable customers

1. Get involved

Open the lines of communication between you and your kids about what they are doing.

2. Don't go overboard

Know the risks but don't ban the internet outright: it's a great tool. If you are over-anxious your kids won't tell you what they are doing.

3. Agree ground rules

These will depend on the age of your children and the type of websites you are happy for them to view.

4. Put the computer in a main room

With your PC in a main room such as the living room, you will be able to keep an eye on what's going on.

5. The Internet is part of school life

School work these days often includes Internet research and used safely the web represents an important learning resource.

6. Parental control software

Install software which is designed to block websites that are not suitable for kids. Virgin Media Security includes Parental Controls and is free to all Virgin Media broadband customers. Parental Controls allows you to screen out offensive material and restrict chat room and Internet messaging programs, as well as schedule the hours in which your children can view specific types of content.

Check out our help videos to find out just how easy it is to do all of this....

Protecting your family online: Configuring Parental Controls

Protecting your family online: Setting up a Windows User Account to use with Parental Controls

It is important to remember that Parental Controls need to be set up on each individual PC in the home and that for Parental Controls to be truly effective, each user will need to log into each PC using their own Windows User Account and password.

7. Chat and instant messaging

If you are in the dark as to what these things are, then ask your kids to teach you.

8. Be careful about plagiarism and homework

The Internet makes it very easy for kids to search the net and copy other people's work. They need educating about the difference between research and plain copying.

9. Bullying on the Internet

Be aware that this is a growing problem for kids particularly when using social networks, email, chat rooms or messageboards. Make sure you are there to listen if they need to talk.

Find useful information in our Top tips for kids on broadband safety.

10. Report abuse when you see it

Forums aimed at children are generally well-moderated and should respond to complaints. Read How to report webforum or message board abuse.