Child-protection groups hail new computer guard against paedophiles

Child-protection groups are hailing a new plug-in device for home computers that could help parents protect their children from paedophile chatroom stalkers.

The British-made XGate sends text message updates to worried parents about their child’s online activity, allowing them to monitor chatroom conversations and block access to sites from their mobile.

The device can even shut down the computer remotely.

It is programmed to pick up typical language used by sex predators when grooming children.

Michele Elliott, of children’s charity Kidscape, which has tried out the device, welcomed the peace of mind the device would bring to families wanting to protect their children from paedophiles prowling the internet.

Seona Shand of Scottish charity Children 1st said: “With technology advancing rapidly and children becoming more technologically minded, we need to keep up.”

The security device, made by Manchester-based company Global Security One (GSEC1), costs €150.