When it comes to children online the key to safety is for parents to be vigilant

Today’s report by CyberSafeIreland on the dangers lurking on the internet is a wake-up call to parents, educators, and anyone who cares about the welfare of children.

Research by the children’s internet safety charity, which publishes its second annual report today, shows that one-third of Irish youngsters have rarely or never spoken to their parents about online safety, and many are spending in excess of four hours a day online.

While some of the charity’s findings are a cause of concern for parents, the report should be read judicially and not be viewed with alarm, or become the cause of panic.