Action plan unveiled to keep children safe while surfing net

A CAMPAIGN to keep youngsters safe from problems such as cyber-bullying and grooming while surfing the internet was launched yesterday.

The Scottish Government's action plan is being accompanied by a drive to promote responsible internet use. Children's minister Adam Ingram warned there were "malicious individuals and organisations who exploit the relative freedom" of the internet.

"We want young people to enjoy the internet and that means helping them stay in control and ensuring they know what to do and who to go to if they feel at risk. We also need to step up our work with parents and carers, teachers and other professionals, as well as industry, to improve protection and understanding of how to keep our children safe online."

The action plan includes working with games developers to raise awareness of the dangers of accessing inappropriate material on the internet while playing. Parents will be given help to understand web-filtering software, while teachers will be trained on internet safety.

Other measures include a competition to encourage children to come up with ideas on spreading the message about online safety.