Internet Matters Team

Informed or Overwhelmed? Understanding the impact of online news on children’s wellbeing

This report explores how children navigate the online news landscape and highlights the importance of media literacy for navigating these spaces.

How to tackle nude image-sharing among children in schools

Find lesson materials to teach about image-sharing behaviours to prevent sexual image-sharing as children grow.

New report reveals how risky and unchecked AI chatbots are the new ‘go to’ for millions of children 

Our new report reveals that the majority of children are using AI chatbots, but many don’t question if they’re reliable

Me, myself and AI chatbot research

Explore findings around children’s use of AI chatbots and the impacts it could have on their digital wellbeing.

Top apps for kids to have balanced screen time this summer

Discover apps that can make your child’s summer screen time fun, active and educational.

New report reveals 7 in 10 children experience harm online, but most don’t report it

Our new report reveals 7 in 10 children experience harm online, but most don’t report it

Understanding and improving how children report online harm 

Explore how children engage with reporting tools on the platforms they use.

How to find safe online communities for kids and teens

Martha Evans, Ashley Rolfe and Allen Tsui share their insights and tips to help parents support children’s safe community online.

Connected and conflicted: Children’s perspectives on restricting social media for under-16s

We take a deep dive into children’s perspectives on banning social media for under-16s to support wellbeing.

What TikTok, Roblox and Google’s updates mean for children’s online safety

If your family engages with TikTok, Roblox or Google Family Link, learn about recent changes and impacts on your family.

How to talk online safety with autistic children: Helen’s story

Mum of two boys, Helen, shares her experience and tips for talking about online safety with her autistic children.

How to encourage autistic children to block and report: Anna’s story

Mum of two, Anna, shares how she encourages blocking and reporting with her neurodivergent children.

How to help autistic children have safe online interactions: Ailish’s story

Ailish shares her experiences with her neurodivergent and neurotypical sons and interacting safely online.

Children’s Wellbeing in a Digital World – Index Report 2025

This report is fourth in an annual series evaluating and tracking impacts of technology on children’s digital wellbeing across four different areas.

Children experiencing harm online in the UK remains ‘stubbornly high’

Our annual “Children’s Wellbeing in a Digital World Index” reveals there has been no reduction in children’s experiences of harm online.

How one family embraces Instagram Teen Accounts

Mum of two, Zoe, shares her experience of Instagram teen accounts.

Internet Matters welcomes Andrew Puddephatt as new Chair

Internet Matters is delighted to announce the appointment of Andrew Puddephatt OBE as its new Chair.

Over half of parents see the New Year as a chance to reset their family’s digital habits

Internet Matters recommends digital resolutions for parents to adopt in 2025 to keep children safe online.

2 in 5 parents more relaxed about children’s online safety over Christmas

Internet Matters’ CEO shares advice with busy parents to put online safety measures in place ahead of the hectic festive season.

Unfiltered report 2024

This report, supported by TikTok, explores what young people and parents think about the concepts of authenticity, belonging and connection in their online lives.

How I set my child up for responsible gaming online

Ala, mum of two teenagers, shares how setting up parental controls on consoles helped her children have positive gaming experiences.

New report estimates half a million UK teenagers have encountered AI-generated nude deepfakes

New report by Internet Matters urges the new Government to crack down on AI-generated sexual imagery ‘epidemic’.

Children’s experiences of nude deepfakes

99% of nude deepfakes feature women and girls. Explore our report that examines the rise of deepfakes in classrooms and our recommendations on how to address this.

7 in 10 children encounter harm online, as two-thirds of parents admit they don’t have broadband controls in place 

The ‘ABC online safety checklist’ to encourage parents to ‘Activate’ parental controls, ‘Balance’ screen time and to ‘Check and Chat’ about kids digital lives

Digital Dilemmas smartphone research 2024

With recent debates about the role of smartphones and social media in young people’s lives, this new research seeks to include parents’ views and voices in the conversation.

Report reveals 1 in 7 teens have experienced abuse relating to online ‘nude-sharing’, calls for earlier prevention in schools

New Internet Matters report, ‘Shifting the dial’, sets out new proposals to prevent children from sharing sexual images of themselves.

What is Kick streaming? What parents need to know

Learn about Kick, a live streaming service similar to Twitch, to help keep children safe.

Warning that teenage girls increasingly accept harassment and abuse as a standard part of life online 

Research into girls’ online experiences raises concerns that some teenagers are normalising inappropriate online messages and content.

Teen girls’ experiences of harm online

Our latest Digital Wellbeing Index report shows that teen girls experience significantly more negative outcomes online than other children.

One parent’s experience using artificial intelligence as a family

See how one mum’s family uses artificial intelligence (AI) in their day-to-day life, and see her advice on keeping children safe.

New research warns that many schools and parents are unprepared for the AI revolution

Warning that many schools and parents are unprepared for the AI revolution as new Internet Matters research reveals 1/4 children are using AI apps to do schoolwork.

What is X? What parents need to know about safety and changes to Twitter

To keep users safe, X, formerly Twitter, has developed a variety of parental control and privacy settings. Learn what they are and how they can be used by you or your child.

Parents fear tech devices are impacting family time and children’s physical health, sleep, and concentration

Internet Matters’ annual Children’s Digital Wellbeing survey shows the use of tech devices is coinciding with growing concerns about screen time.

Children’s Wellbeing in a Digital World — Index Report 2024

The 2024 Children’s Wellbeing in a Digital World Index report highlights increasing concerns from parents about the time their child spends on devices.

Why do teens use anonymous apps like Omegle?

Anonymous apps like Omegle remain popular among teens despite some safety concerns. We asked 15-year-old Freya and 16-year-old Harry about their experiences using anonymous apps.

A new lesson to teach cyberbullying for Anti-Bullying Week 2023

Get ready for Anti-Bullying Week with a lesson from Digital Matters and other cyberbullying resources.

Research into online misogyny and image-based abuse

Explore research on the reach and influence of online misogyny.

New research sees favourable views towards Andrew Tate from both teen boys and young dads

A report on children’s exposure to online misogyny reveals it’s becoming difficult for parents to protect children from harmful influencers, like Andrew Tate.

How one dad deals with misogyny content teen boys consume

James Coomber lives with his wife and their two teenaged sons. He worries about the misogynistic content teen boys consume across the digital space.

Children on free school meals more vulnerable to online harm report reveals

Report from Internet Matters, sponsored by Tesco Mobile, reveals that children on free school meals are more likely to experience harm online.

Exploring the awareness and usage of parental controls to support digital safety

In this blog we explore a topic that plays an important role in digital safety: parental controls.

How to choose apps for kids

Guidance on choosing new apps and games for children to support wellbeing, interests and balanced screen time.

Report reveals concerns over children being targeted by online cryptocurrency scams

New report, Decrypting Crypto: Exploring Children’s Engagement with Cryptoassets, explores children’s interest in NFTs and crypto.

Children’s Wellbeing in a Digital World — Index Report 2023 Appendix Charts

This data pack supports the Children’s Wellbeing in a Digital World Year Two Index report released in early 2023.

Revealed: Number of children experiencing online hate speech is growing but are parents talking about it?

Internet Matters joins forces with Samsung to help children and parents tackle online hate.

Amazon Kids joins forces with Internet Matters to keep children safe online

Internet Matters has announced a new collaboration with Amazon Kids to help families keep their children safe online.

Exploring the impact of online harms, Part 2

This blog series assesses online harms from our tracker survey, analyses who is most impacted and explores why. In this second blog, we explore the impact of the online harm children report experiencing.

Supporting girls impacted by misogyny online

Dad, Barney, shares his daughter’s experience with misogyny online. See what he does to support his teen to deal with the hate she sees in online football communities.

Year 2 report of Children’s Wellbeing in a Digital World Index released

Positive effects of being online have reduced for UK children since last year according to latest Internet Matters’ Digital Wellbeing Index.

Exploring the impacts of online harms, Part 1

In this blog, we focus on what parents and children say that children have experienced online.

Knowledge of the metaverse among parents and children limited: Report

New report polling UK families calls for conversations around children’s use of technology and questions whether the Online Safety Bill is already outdated.

What is Doki Doki Literature Club? What parents need to know

Learn about Doki Doki Literature Club (DDLC) and alternatives more appropriate for children.

Rocket League video game – A parents’ guide

Learn about Rocket League and how it works to help children get the most out of it.

New interactive quiz gamifies understanding of PlayStation safety features

Internet Matters and Sony have created ‘Press Start for PlayStation Safety’, a quiz that helps families learn how to have a safer gaming experience online.

How one family uses cryptocurrency to save

Cryptocurrency is confusing for some people, but mum Jayne and family have found a way to make it work for them and their savings.

Anti-Bullying Week 2022: Reach Out

2022’s Anti-Bullying Week theme is all about reaching out – when you see bullying and when you need help.

What steps can I take if my child has sent a nude?

If your child has sent a nude, what steps should you take and what support can you expect from local agencies? Our experts provide insight on this and more about the law, sexting and tips to manage the situation.

Parents’ guide: What is Yolo app and is it safe?

Learn more about the Yolo app and what to watch out for to keep kids safe.

The impact of technology on children’s digital wellbeing

Explore findings from the 2022 Index Report for Children’s Wellbeing in a Digital World.

What is the sendit app?

The sendit app has risen in popularity among young people, but just like other anonymous apps, it can put children at risk of exploitation and bullying. Learn how sendit and companion apps like it impact teens’ social media experience.

What is Rec Room? What parents need to know

Rec Room is a free cross-platform multiplayer video game gaining in popularity. Learn about it to help keep kids safe while playing.

What is 4chan and why is it controversial?

Launched in 2003, 4chan is an established imageboard website with 20 million visitors monthly and 900,000 new posts per day.

Internet Matter joins the Digital Poverty Alliance to tackle digital divide

Today, the Digital Poverty Alliance (DPA) launches its UK Evidence Review 2022.

One mum’s experience with online child-on-child abuse

Mum, Emma, shares her experience of online child-on-child abuse and what parents can do to help keep their children safe.

The role of agency in supporting young people’s wellbeing

Our report, Intentional Use, explores mindfulness through the example of managing screen time.

Teach vital media literacy skills with launch of free digital learning platform, Digital Matters

Online safety learning platform, Digital Matters, launches today to support teachers, parents and children.

One dad shares how his teen daughter gets her news from social media

Gary is a divorced dad who has a 16-year-old daughter Ella who recently finished her GCSEs. He discusses how Ella gets her news from social media.

One mum’s take on balancing screen time, information and wellbeing

Jenny is a mum of two secondary school-aged boys. She explains how they balance their screen time with homework.

Online activism, social media and young people

Many young people get their information from social media. However, activism can fuel misinformation, scams/fraud and hate speech.

New cyber security resources for children at home

Launched last year, CyberSprinters teaches cyber security to 7 to 11-year-olds using various resources and an online game. The NCSC has now released new cyber security resources for children at home to complete with a trusted adult.

Teenagers tell MPs that they back increased internet regulation

New research reveals that teenagers back increased curbs on the internet in the discussion around the Online Safety Bill.

Supporting children’s body image in the online world

Many young people struggle with negative body image and there is a growing concern about the online world’s impact on body image.

UK foster carers provided with new training to help keep children safe online

This new foster carer training course has been created for carers to help keep children in their care safe online.

Play Together/Play Smart Campaign encourages more and more parents to set up parental controls

A campaign by Electronic Arts and Internet Matters has successfully encouraged parents to get more involved in video gaming and understand the simple steps they can take to feel confident their children are gaming safely and responsibly.

Internet Matters launches new index to measure UK children’s ‘digital wellbeing’

Internet Matters releases its first index to track children’s wellbeing in a digital world – revealing the role that parents’ habits play in their child’s growth.

Is the Telegram Messenger app safe? – What parents need to know

Internet Matters launches ‘Children’s Wellbeing in a Digital World: Index Report 2022’

We’ve launched Children’s Wellbeing in a Digital World: Index Report 2022, the culmination of a year-long project, developed with the University of Leicester and Revealing Reality on the impact of digital use on children and young people in the UK.

What is Fortnite Chapter 3 Flipped?

Fortnite continues to be one of the most popular games around the world with 80.4 million monthly active users. Chapter 3 Flipped includes the features that have made it so popular while introducing new elements to keep it interesting.

1 in 8 children say time online harms their school work | The Children’s Society

The Children’s Society released new report Net Gains? Young People’s Digital Lives and Well-Being, exploring how time online affects children.

Comedian Katherine Ryan fronts Internet Matters and Electronic Arts Video Games Campaign

A take on Twas the Night Before Christmas performed by Katherine Ryan urges parents to set controls on games consoles before their kids unwrap them.

TikTok explores effective responses to dangerous online challenges

A new report commissioned by TikTok explores dangerous online challenges (including hoax challenges) and harm prevention.

Anti-Bullying Week 2021: One Kind Word

We are proud to support Anti-Bullying Week 2021 to focus on the important things we all can do with one kind word.

My Family’s Digital Toolkit launched for ‘made to measure’ advice for parents

For the first time ever, UK parents can benefit from ‘made to measure’ advice around children’s online wellbeing with the launch of our new service.

EE launches the nation’s first phone licence, PhoneSmart, to help prepare kids for life online

EE has created PhoneSmart, a free online programme that provides young people with the tools and confidence to use phones safely and responsibly.

What are the concerns around Netflix’s Squid Game?

The series is the most viewed Netflix series of all time. However, reports of children imitating Squid Game are a source of concern for many.

What to do if your child is a cyberbully

As a parent, it can be difficult to accept that your child may be exhibiting bullying behaviour towards their peers. This advice can help.

Report published in partnership with Roblox exploring teens’ online interactions

“The internet is starting to feel more like real life”: Teens reveal the truth about their online world in new report, say they want parents to get more involved.

Young people share their online experiences in new report

The Demystifying Teens Online Interactions report hears from young people talking about their experiences when connected online.

The Children’s Commissioner for England publishes results of The Big Ask

In response to The Big Ask, the Children’s Commissioner for England published the results in the form of The Big Answer.

Internet Matters’ response to draft Online Safety Bill

See our response to the Online Safety Bill, which sets out the government’s plans for a new regulatory regime addressing illegal and harmful online content.

Going Too Far – tackle extremism with this classroom resource

Created by LGfL and the Department for Education, Going Too Far is a new resource for teachers to help students understand extremism and dangerous or illegal behaviours online.

What is the dark web? – Advice for parents

To help you understand the risks to children, we’ve pulled together a quick summary of what you need to know.

Play Together/Play Smart campaign launched to ensure safe and responsible gaming

The Play Together/Play Smart’ campaign gives parents a greater understanding of how to get closer to the games their children play.

Understanding children’s and families’ wellbeing in a digital world

We introduce our research into children’s wellbeing in a digital world.

What parents need to know about Pokémon GO mobile game

To help parents get a better understanding of this new phenomenon taking the gaming world by storm we outline the key information you’ll need to know.

Interactive tool launched in partnership with Samsung Electronics UK promoting inclusive culture online

The Online Together Project is a co-created initiative between Internet Matters and Samsung Electronics UK.

How to help your children respect gender equality online

Psychologist Dr Linda Papadopoulos provides insight on how to help young people tackle gender stereotypes online with young people.

FIFA 21 football game safety tips for families

Get safety tips on the FIFA 2021 to create a safer experience for you and your family to enjoy. From managing screen time to staying engaged with their gameplay.

Discover what Facebook is doing to keep children safe online

With over 2.4 billion people using Facebook, safety is a key focus to help tackle harmful content online and keep people safe on its platform.

Do influencers have an impact on a child’s behaviour?

Do influencers have an impact on a child’s behaviour? IM experts Dr Elizabeth Milovidov and Lauren Seager-Smith discuss if this is true for preteens (9-13).

Making Instagram safer for young people

Following the successful publication of our Vulnerable Children in the Digital World report was launched, we have been working next steps to make a real impact in this space, find out how.

Digital Passport launched to help tackle online harm for children in care

The initiative is designed to help communication between foster carers and the children in their care.

Right to Roam – with a Digital Passport

Learn about the Digital Passport, created to keep care-experienced young people safe online.

Is Among Us multiplayer game safe for children?

Among Us is a multiplayer game rated PEGI 7 that has become very popular with pre-teens in the UK. Get advice on what you need to know about the game to keep children safe.

What is the Clubhouse app? What parents need to know

Clubhouse is a drop-in audio-based social media app making head waves around the world due to its recent $100m valuation and trending topics.

Parents reveal how tech has helped their kids through lockdown

Parents believe technology during the pandemic has left a positive mark on their kid’s lives. They now need to catch up on dealing with the increased risks.

From Survive to Thrive: Supporting digital family life after lockdown

What’s on the page Message from the CEO Read the full report Explore the summary below or read through the full report. Supporting resources

Concern as parents admit they’re not regularly talking to kids about online safety

Internet Matters urges parents to speak to their kids about digital life, as research shows 1 in 6 never or rarely talk about online safety issues.

New report finds girls at worsening risk of grooming from sexual predators online

Analysis in the IWF’s annual report shows 11-13-year-old girls are increasingly at risk of grooming and coercion by online predators.

Launch of online money management hub

We launched the new online money management hub to help parents address the issue of children’s online money management as they grow up in an increasingly cashless society.

New guide helps parents manage their children’s online money habits

It can be difficult for kids to understand money’s value, as research shows how 43% of parents are concerned about kids spending money online.

Parent shares her tips to support children with online money management

Meena shares her tips to help children develop good online money habits.

Mum of two shares her ideas on supporting children’s online spending

Sandra shares her insights on what works for her when it comes to helping her two daughters understand online currencies and what things cost online.

The lessons learnt from homeschooling & how it will impact children in the future

A new survey from Internet Matters reveals both the positive and negative impact remote learning has had on children’s wellbeing and self-esteem.

Mum of SEND teen shares the positive impact of tech on her child

Sarah mum to Amber who has autism shares the important role the online world plays in her child’s daily life and offers tips for other parents.

Will proposed online harms regulation help children have a safer experience online?

Government published its full response to the Online Harms Whitepaper which outlines an approach for the regulation of services that pose risk.

Talking to your kids about fake news

Psychologist Dr Linda Papadopoulos shares advice on helping children understand and tackle fake news.

Exploring the relationship between vulnerable children & online

Nearly a fifth of schoolchildren, who have sent sexts said they were pressured or blackmailed into doing so, the new Cybersurvey reveals.

We must protect UK’s 2 million vulnerable children from double-whammy of online harm

Internet Matters calls for a greater focus on support for vulnerable children, as study reveals some can be up to SEVEN TIMES more at risk in the digital world.

What will your digital festive season look like this year?

With social restrictions in place in the UK, Damion Founde speaks to us about what his family will be doing to celebrate the festive season using tech

Teen shares his experience of social media during Covid-19 pandemic

A teen shares the crucial role social media played in his life during Covid-19.

Consultation response: Online Harms and the Ethics of Data

Our Policy Director Claire Levens provides insight that we have gained from parents, teenagers, and academics.

Helping young people tackle challenges they face online

We are launching our new advice guide for parents on how to protect their children from online scaremongering and fake news.

Assisting youth in addressing the difficulties they encounter in the digital realm

Internet Matters is working alongside the Premier League to equip children with the skills they need to navigate their online world safely.

Ditch The Label – Anti-Bullying Survey 2020

Ditch the Label – Anti-Bullying Survey 2020 Supporting resources

Response to the Loot Box Consultation

Claire Levens shares Internet Matters’ response to the government’s loot box consultation in 2020.

Fake news fears over COVID-19 becomes top concern for parents

The spread of fake news about Covid-19 has emerged as a top concern for parents, according to new research by Internet Matters.

Anti-Bullying Week 2020: United Against Bullying

As a member of the Anti-Bullying Alliance, we are proud to support Anti-Bullying Week (16th – 20th November) this year to focus on the important things we all can do to stand united against bullying.

Launch of our Fake News & Misinformation Advice hub

We are launching our new advice guide for parents on how to protect their children from online scaremongering and fake news surrounding the COVID-19 outbreak. 

Parenting blogger Harriet Shearsmith joins call to parents to get clued up on risks of digital piracy

We’ve launched a new campaign to highlight the risks of digital piracy as almost one in five parents believe that it is safe.

A young person’s experience of pirated content

Hannah shares her experience of downloading and watching pirated content online and how her parents supported her in managing the associated risks.

Microsoft releases Xbox Family Settings app

The new app, helps parents to control children’s screen time, to filter content and to manage their friends.

1 in 3 boys are seeing content online encouraging them to ‘bulk up their body’

Growing numbers of children are exposed to potentially harmful online content, particularly encouraging them to bulk up, new report reveals.

New Cybersurvey report shows a third of boys are seeing content online encouraging them to bulk up

Growing numbers of children are being exposed to potentially harmful online content, particularly encouraging them to bulk up their bodies, a new report reveals.

Inclusive Digital Safety hub to support vulnerable children online

Internet Matters and SWGfL launch first of its kind online hub to help keep more than 2 million vulnerable children safe online.

Inclusive Digital Safety – A new online safety hub

Together with SWGfL, we have launched an online hub to help keep more than 2 million children and young people experiencing vulnerabilities, stay safe online.

Internet Matters response to AVMSD

This Code will provide guidance on the privacy standards that the ICO will expect organisations to adopt.

6 out of 10 teachers are worried about online safety of pupils who used the internet during lockdown

As children make the long-awaited return to school, our new campaign urges parents to stay switched on around their child’s online safety.

Instagram Reels – A parents’ guide to the new video sharing feature

Instagram has rolled out a new feature allowing users to record and share 15-second videos on Instagram, similar to features on the popular app TikTok.

What is encryption and how does it impact children’s online safety?

Find out what encryption is, what this means as a potential risk for child online safety, and the concerns raised over it.

Family Video Game database launches with UKIE & ParentZone support

The Family Video Game Database was unveiled today, offering parents and carers the information they need to make informed choices.

Launch of Connecting Safely Online hub

Internet Matters launches Connecting Safely Online – A new hub to empower young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

1 in 5 children who have sent sexts, say they were ‘pressured or blackmailed’

Nearly a fifth of schoolchildren, who have sent sexts said they were pressured or blackmailed into doing so, new research has revealed.

New Cybersurvey sexting report highlights insight into digital relationships for young people today

Nearly a fifth of schoolchildren, who have sent sexts said they were pressured or blackmailed into doing so, the new Cybersurvey reveals.

Facebook joins coalition to combat online child sexual abuse

The campaign, created by End Violence Against Children Fund and backed by Facebook, has been launched to help young people ‘Stay safe at home. Stay Safe online’.

Internet Matters joins forces with Samsung to offer families vital online safety advice during lockdown

Working together, we have transformed our online safety workshop into a video series that focuses on educating parents about online safety.

Supporting DevicesDotNow’s goal to get the whole nation connected during lockdown

Internet Matters has teamed up with DevicesDotNow to ensure society’s most vulnerable are getting connected during the lockdown.

Xbox release their Family Settings app (preview)

With the Xbox Family Settings app, you can easily manage your children’s gaming activities on Xbox consoles, all from your phone and in real time.

Parents share their experiences of tech and wellbeing during lockdown

To understand more about how families are coping with their new normal during lockdown, parents share their digital diaries reflecting on tech & wellbeing.

As gaming soars during lockdown, research shows only 1 in 3 parents check age ratings

New research reveals that only 33% of kids say their parents check age-ratings on games they play while two-thirds of 11-year-olds rank online gaming as their “favourite online activity”.

Watch parties – the go-to group watch feature

We give you the low down on what watch parties are and how you and your family can use them during your downtime.

Training and talking in a world gone mad

Claire Levens shares an update on the Vulnerable Users Working Group during the Covid-19 pandemic.

How to use video chat platforms to group chat with family and friends

Get tips on how to make use of the most popular video chat platforms to do group chats with family and friends and stay connected during lockdown.

Mum shares her experience with working from home

Mum Keri-Anne shares her family’s personal experience of working from home while looking after children.

Five countries and tech firms agree groundbreaking principles to keep children safe online

As more young people take to social media to find love, expert Adrienne Katz explains how this is affecting vulnerable young people.

Online Harms Response: Balancing The Net – Speech, Systems & Specifics

Our Policy Director Claire Levens shares her insights on the recent consultation response from the UK Government on the Online Harms White Paper.

Safer Internet Day 2020: UK Safer Internet Centre reveals that being online is both liberating and limiting for children

UK Safer Internet Centre research reveals young people’s online experiences are an essential part of who they are offline.

Spotify Kids app launched to provide curated songs for children aged 3 and over

Learn how Spotify Kids can offer a safe solution for children listening to music.

New Ofcom Report Suggests Parents’ Rising Concern Over Children Online

Following the successful publication of our Vulnerable Children in the Digital World report was launched, we have been working next steps to make a real impact in this space, find out how.

New Age Appropriate Design Code aims to protect children online

We have been working next steps to make a real impact in this space, find out how.

YouTube updates privacy settings for children on its platform

In late 2019, YouTube announced a series of changes to better protect children’s privacy on YouTube.

What is the Houseparty app? What parents need to know

Learn more about the discontinued Houseparty app, how it works and the risks.

Rise of the AI Influencer: Advice for parents on ‘picture perfect’ online personalities

Learn about the fake influencers being created by AI and what you can do to protect children.

Tackling misinformation on Instagram

See how Instagram tackles misinformation on their platform.

Setting up your child’s new smartphone

Learn about setting your child’s mobile phone up safely with parental controls.

Instagram: The Fight Against Online Bullying

To help tackle cyberbullying and online hate in the digital world, Instagram has rolled out a new feature that flags content considered as being offensive.

Episode Game App – What parents need to know

Learn more about the TikTok app and what to watch out for to keep kids safe.

Mum shares the impact fake news had on her son

Mum Ann shares her family’s personal experience of fake news to help other parents consider their children’s digital literacy skills.

Online hate and trolling – a parent’s story

Mum Beth shares her family’s personal experience with online hate to help other parents support their children on this issue.

New advice for parents on ‘picture perfect’ online personalities

Internet Matters is issuing parents advice on helping their children be more critical of online content – following the rise of the AI influencer.

Instagram restricts weight loss posts to support young people’s digital wellbeing

Instagram has introduced new policies to ensure that users under 18 on its platform will not be able to see any diet and cosmetic procedure posts.

Vulnerable children and online safety

Following the successful publication of our Vulnerable Children in the Digital World report was launched, we have been working next steps to make a real impact in this space, find out how.

Screen time campaign launched to help children develop healthy digital diet

We’ve launched a new TV campaign to help parents find the right screen time balance for their children.

Managing screen time with children of different ages – mum shares her experience

Jess mum of two shares her screen time challenges and tips when trying to implement screen time boundaries with children of different ages.

If you left your kids to their own devices… They might never leave their devices

Internet Matters launches new thought-provoking ad campaign aimed at helping parents find the right screen time balance for their kids

Internet Matters response to the Online Harms White Paper

See our response to the UK Government’s’ Online Harms White Paper consultation which sets out the government’s plans for new online safety measures.

How can I help my child have a safe school break online?

Get expert advice for online safety during school breaks.

Play your child at their own game this summer

Today we’ve launched our new advice hub to encouraging mums and dads to take up online gaming to help them understand the benefits and risks for their children.

Parenting Generation Game report

Parenting Generation Game report overview What’s inside the report? See our summary of findings infographic to learn more about parents’ views on gaming. Supporting resources

Parenting Generation Game: Summary of findings

Key findings of Parenting Generation Game report See a summary of the insights from our Parenting Generation Game report outlining parental views of their relationship with gaming across all devices and platforms. Supporting resources

Parents say online porn gives children extreme unrealistic idea of sex

Our new report We need to talk about pornography reveals the concerns parents have over the impact of online pornography on future generations

New research reveals parent and teen divide over impact of tech on loneliness

Impact of Technology on Loneliness. New research reveals parent and teen divide over impact of technology on loneliness.

From cyberbullying to self-harm, report reveals how online risks could be anticipated in UK’s vulnerable kids

The study reveals how vulnerable young people’s online experiences can be used to identify how they might encounter certain online risks.

Supporting teens as they explore their curiosity online

Mum, Vicky, shares how she manages her child’s natural curiosity into sex online.

Mum shares her challenge of protecting her teens from seeing adult content

Madeline mother of two shares how her family’s tech use has a positive impact.

Mum shares her experience of protecting digitally savvy pre-teen from inappropriate content

Beth shares how she helps her digitally-savvy 10-year-old navigate the risks of seeing inappropriate content through the platforms he uses.

Online consent & images sharing – Mum shares challenges of teaching teens to share safely

Antonia shares tips that have helped her support her teenaged daughters.

Plays on the Internet’ helps tackle online safety through theatre

Along with Plusnet, children’s author Konnie Huq and theatre group Chickenshed we’ve created a trilogy of plays to educate families on internet safety.

Supercell partners with us to continue their drive to improve child safety online

One of the world’s leading mobile gaming developers, Supercell, has partnered with us in a bid to help children stay safe while gaming online.

1 in 3 parents concerned their children will become addicted to pornography

Our research found that parents’ fears included children having a distorted view of healthy sex and relationships, objectification of women and use of violence.

Screen time report 2018

What’s on this page Key report findings This report shows what families in the UK shared about their children’s online screentime and it’s impact on their children. We asked parents and young people to tell us what was good about their children’s screen use and what was challenging. Here are the key insights. Look Both […]

Reflecting on Age Appropriate Design Code – Information Commissioner’s Office

Policy Director at Internet Matters, Claire Levens, shares information on Age Appropriate Design Code in 2019.

Safeguarding children online is top priority as UK set to introduce new online safety standards

In 2019, the government announced online safety standards to be released, outlined here.

TikTok joins Internet Matters as part of its commitment to online safety

TikTok joins Internet Matters to help keep teens safe online.

Samsung joins us to help keep children safe in the Connected Home

Samsung joins us and our partners in our mission to improve children’s digital safety and parental access to information.

How can we support vulnerable children in the digital world?

The report explores how children’s vulnerabilities offline can help us to identify online risks.

New screen time guidance advises parents to consider not using phones at dinner and bedtime

Government screen time guidance encourages children not to use phones at bedtime.

New research reveals the positives and challenges of young people sharing content online

Research shows a mismatch between children’s attitudes to online sharing and their actions.

8 out of 10 parents back Government’s pornography age-verification plans

Government plans to introduce age-verification on pornography sites have been overwhelmingly backed by parents, new research reveals.

Parent shares how tech use helps children thrive

Madeline mother of two shares how her family’s tech use has a positive impact.

Mum gamer shares online gaming benefits and potential challenges

Mummy gamer shares how she helps her son navigate the online gaming world.

Group chat is the new cyberbullying threat as 8 out of 10 parents reveal concerns

More than 8 out of 10 parents are concerned their child will be cyberbullied on a group chat, new research has revealed.

Dads champion the positive power tech has on their children’s lives

Dads share how they encourage their boys to use a range of smart tech to develop new skills.

Making friends and managing real friendships online – tips from a parent

Mum Eilidh shares safety tips that have helped her to support her children.

Managing online stranger danger and digital relationships with kids – a parent’s story

Laura Hitchcock shares her experiences helping her children navigate stranger danger and digital relationships.

Internet Matters response to the Relationship Education, RSE and health education consultation

See our response to the UK Department for Education’s Relationships education, relationships and sex education, and health education consultation.

Screen time report reveals parents concerns that too much screen is causing child inactivity

We carried out research with parents to find out their biggest concerns around screen time.

Internet Matters and Google partner to offer online safety advice to Parents in Manchester

Parents are being offered free sessions from online safety experts thanks to a new workshop offered by Google and Internet Matters.

Internet Matters response to Age Appropriate Design Code call for evidence

This Code will provide guidance on the privacy standards that the ICO will expect organisations to adopt.

Campaign shows how online pressure boils over in the first year of secondary school

Internet Matters launches Back To School campaign as new research reveals Year 7 is a pinch-point for online issues.

Preparing children for online challenges as they start secondary school

Emma, mum of four shares, concerns about online peer pressure and online risks as her child makes the move to secondary school.

Helping young children navigate the online world – a parent’s experience

How challenging is it to raise young children in the age of Instagram and YouTube? We spoke to Lucy mum of 2 to find out.

Mum shares basic rules on managing screen time with teens

Supporting a tween and teen Sarah mum of 3 shares her approach to screen time and some rules she follows to guide them in the right direction.

Insta-grans’ guide to help keep kids safe online this summer

Grandparents are being encouraged to get to grips with children’s online safety as four in 10* will be left looking after the kids over the school summer break.

Parent shares the benefits of live streaming and vlogging for children

While live streaming can leave children open to potential risks, there are also some great benefits it can offer children to help them be more creative.

Mum shares how she tackled struggles with children live streaming and vlogging

Lucie, a mum to a 12 and 14-year-old, shares her struggles with issues around sharing of personal information.

Live streaming report reveals nearly a third of 11 to 13 year old are broadcasting themselves live over the internet

The report explores the factors that prevent young people from using the internet safely,

Government response to the Internet Safety Consultation – the view from Internet Matters

As the Govt. releases its response to the Internet Safety Strategy Green Paper, Claire Levens looks at what this means for online safety in the UK.

Adopting a relaxed approach to screen time to let kids explore

Mum Caroline shares how her relaxed approach to screen time works well for her children.

Mum shares online risks with kids to help them share safely online

Would you like to know more about how to prevent kids from oversharing their lives online? Here’s a parent’s view on what really works for her and her kids when it comes to sharing safely online.

Science and Technology Committee Inquiry into the Impact of Social Media and Screen Time on kids health

Read our consultation response to the Impact of Social Media and Screen Time on young people’s health.

40 percent rise in teens managing their money online

A campaign which aims to give parents the confidence to help their children manage their money online has revealed that online and mobile banking among Halifax customers aged 11 to 18 has increased by 40% in just two years.

7 out of 10 teens want parents to set filters to protect them online

New survey reveals nearly 7 out of 10 of kids aged 11-16 think parental controls are ‘a good idea’ – yet 6 out of 10 parents don’t set them

Revealed: 7 in 10 teens want parents to set filters to protect them online

We share research into parental controls to help parents set children’s devices up safe.

Mum shares how she makes the most of parental controls to keep her child safe online

Chermaine, a mum of one, gives her insight on how to use parental controls to create a safer space for her child to explore their curiosity online.

Parents opts out of parental controls and focuses on having conversation about online safety

Mel Knibb, a busy Mum of four, shares her experience of using parental controls and highlights the importance of having a conversation with kids.

Internet Matters response to Internet Safety Strategy

In October 2017, the Government a consultation paper on the Internet Safety Strategy – which set out its ambition to make the UK the safest place in the world to be online.

Love and friendships online

Internet Matters reveals the role the internet is playing in the relationships of 11 to 16 year olds – as it launches new Digital Resilience Toolkits for parents

New survey shows 1 in 5 children are happy to have an “online-only” romance

Our new survey shows a fifth of children say they would be happy to have an “online-only” relationship with a person they’ve never met.

Parent shares the challenges of talking to kids about their digital lives

Finding the right time and approach to talk to children about what they do online can be tricky. A mum shares her story.

Helping children deal with online issues when things go wrong

Parent gives us her take on how she helps her children manage online risks.

Tips from parents on how to prevent kids from oversharing online

Therese shares her experience as a mum of an aspiring YouTuber.

Parent vlogger gives tips on making shared devices safe for kids to use online

See how to set safety features on devices you may share with your child.

Watch the video: How one word could be hiding your child’s digital angst

New research reveals 1 in 2 schoolchildren would not speak to their parents if upset by something online.

Huawei announces new partnership with Internet Matters

Global ICT leader becomes latest to join forces with e-safety organisation which helps parents keep their children safe online.

Peer pressure to get kids the latest smartphones as they start school

Read how Mum Ali copes with the challenges of supporting children as they get their first phones.

Internet Matters issues tips on safe ‘sharenting’ for first day back at school

Internet Matters ambassador Dr Linda Papadopoulos helps parents to make sure their children’s back to school snaps are shared safely.

Mum shares digital prep for childs’ move to secondary school

See how this mum of two is getting prepared to meet the challenge of her child moving to secondary school.

Screen time – Setting strict rules and getting the balance right

Mum of three offers insight into her strict regime on screen time during the holidays.

Internet Matters launches summer holiday ‘screensafe’ campaign

Urging parents to talk to their kids about staying safe online

What is LiveMe? – What parents need to know

LiveMe is a social platform for over-18s that allows users to connect with others and earn virtual goods to exchange for prizes, rewards and cash. Learn more about the app and its risks to keep your child safe online.

Parent shares her story about how her son was bullied online

Laura shares her son’s story to encourage other parents to start a conversation about the cyberbullying.

Mum shares psychological impact cyberbullying had on her daughter

This mum’s story reinforces the need to talk and take an active role in a child’s digital life.

1 in 5 parents admit their child has received cruel comments online

70% rank online bullying over body image as their biggest concern.

Internet Matters launch new expert hub headed up by Dr Linda Papadopoulus

Internet Matters launches What The Experts Say to provide parents with tailored expert advice on online safety issues that matter most to them.

How can I encourage my child to share safely online?

Experts give advice on questions surrounding oversharing, monitoring what children share online and the safest social platforms for children.

What do you do if your child is addicted to online gaming?

Mum shares insight on son’s addictions to online gaming.

Revealed: The secret life of six-year-olds online

To mark Safer Internet Day, Internet Matters reveals the online habits of a 6-year-old – as digitally advanced today as 10-year-olds were just 3 years ago

Revealed: The Secret life of six-year-olds online

Key report findings Below we’ve created an infographic to show how six-year-olds online habits compare to that of 10-year-olds and how they’ve changed since 2013.  If you’d like to get practical advice on keeping them safe, please take a look at our advice and guides. Supporting resources

What impact can selfies have on my child’s self-esteem and mental health?

We ask our experts to give advice on issues that children may face when posting images online.

Parent discusses sharenting safely and managing kids’ digital lives

Laura, mother of four gives her experience of how she shares pictures of her children online and how this is changing as they get older.

Parent stories: Post like someone is watching

Jactina, mum of three shares her experience to help others who may also be going through the same digital parenting challenges.

Parent shares questions kids should answer before posting

Emma Vanstone, social media savvy Mum of three, outlines key questions she asks her children to answer before sharing online.

Internet Matters children’s online safety 2016 report

The report summarises the findings and looks in particular detail at these questions in relations to cyberbullying and sexting.

What I do to encourage my child to share safely online

Mum and blogger Victoria Welton gives insight into what she does to help her child share safely online.

Mum’s letter urging all to stand up to bullying following son’s suicide

Lucy Alexander wrote an open letter to parents, teachers and children to do everything they can to stamp out cyberbullying.

How I use my ‘Power for Good’ as a mum and teacher

To shine a light on how parents can use their ‘Power for Good’, mum of three and teacher Emma Bradley shares how she is using her power to help her children deal with bullying.

Protecting teens and pre-schoolers from online risks – Mum of 4 tells us how she does it

See how one mum balances online safety among children of different ages.

Pace of change research reveals gap between parents & children’s knowledge of online playground

Our Pace of change study highlights the challenges that parents face in keeping up with what their children are doing online.