5 March 2012: iiNet, Australia’s second largest DSL broadband provider, has released a mobile and smart phone safety and security fact sheet to assist parents when introducing their children to their own device.

iiNet’s Compliance Manager, Rebecca Moonen, said that while mobile phones provide convenience, peace of mind and a wealth of information,  guidelines, that both parents and their children agree on, should be set from the get go.

“It’s as simple as sitting down together and talking through the features and functions of the phone to minimise any risk when your kids are surfing the Internet or if their phone is lost or stolen,” Ms Moonen said.

·         Set some ground rules – Work together with your child to decide on a phone curfew – the time they’ll hand their phone in at night.

It’s also a good idea to set a phone budget and make sure  your kids are  aware that each call, text, competition entry, or ‘free ring tone’ may be charged to their phone bill.

Set a ‘passcode’ on the phone that you both know so your child’s details are protected if the phone is lost or stolen.

·         Be aware of your mobile footprint – Head to the phone’s ‘settings’ to disable both the Bluetooth and ‘Location Services’ functions. This prevents the phone from being ‘discoverable’ by people your children don’t know.

·         Take the time to talk – in person – Encourage your child to talk to you about unwanted attention they may be receiving via phone calls or text. They should also tell you if they’re prompted to provide their personal details via text or the phone’s Internet connection.

Remind your child that it’s easy for photos and videos to be forwarded to third parties that might not have their best interests at heart. It’s important they stop, re-read and think before sending.

iiNet’s ‘Mobile phones: keeping your kids safe and secure on the go’ fact sheet can be downloaded from iiNet’s Online Safety website.

iiNet’s Online Safety Series was introduced to help Australians become more aware of safe practices when surfing the web. Each month, information will be released and made available for download from the iiNet website. Topics covered by the safety series include social networking, online shopping, phishing emails and password security.

To learn more about iiNet’s Online Safety Series or to register interest in an Online Safety Seminar visit www.iinet.net.au/safety.