THE internet can be a "playground for paedophiles", the NSPCC has warned after new figures suggested increasing numbers of children are raising concerns about online abuse and grooming.

Statistics from Childline, a service provided by the charity, show counselling sessions for youngsters worried about online sexual abuse jumped by 24 per cent to 3,716 in 2015/16.

Most of those contacting the facility were aged between 12 and 15, and more than half were girls.

The online abuse category covers issues including grooming, sexual harassment and communications, pressure to engage in or view explicit material online and sexual extortion.

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One in eight of the counselling sessions in 2015/16 were related specifically to grooming - an increase of 21 per cent, the NSPCC said.

The charity's chief executive Peter Wanless said: "Most of us talk to people online and it's a great way to stay connected and make new friends.

"But it can be a playground for paedophiles, exposing young people to groomers who trawl social networks and online game forums exploiting any vulnerabilities they may find."

Childline founder Esther Rantzen said the internet has brought many positive changes. "But it has also brought dangers and online grooming is a real risk," she said.

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Childine is launching a new campaign titled Listen To Your Selfie which is aimed at helping young people recognise the signs of grooming and unhealthy relationships, both online and offline.

Mr Wanless said: "We hope that by putting this in the spotlight we can help young people to feel able to speak up if they feel worried or scared about a situation or relationship."

Top tips to keep your child safe online

Decide what is age-appropriate

It is important to bear in mind the age of your child when it comes to internet usage and how much control you have over what they see – do they have their own smartphone? Or can they access the internet using their own laptop? If they’re downloading apps, what are the age restrictions? Certain apps are for 12 years old and over, but some age restrictions are much lower than they should be. The most high-risk apps are those that offer instant messaging and images/video.


Do your research

There are a number of great advice sites you can use to research whether the content your child is looking at is age-appropriate. For example, and are both useful sources for parents. Some schools organise awareness days with the aim of educating parents about safe internet usage, so keep an eye out for any in your local area. Remember that kids are often more technologically advanced than parents! Children have grown up with the internet, so it’s not surprising that they’re naturally tech-savvy. Some apps are even designed to deceive parents about their true nature. There are a number of sites that have terrible reputations when it comes to bullying, and even self-harm. Try to educate them about these sites and the dangers.

Open communication and early education is key

It’s much easier to keep an eye on children when they’re younger, when they get older is when the challenge begins because you’re not with them all the time. Make a conscious effort to educate your children from a young age about the importance of internet safety and encourage them to keep an open dialogue with you and not to be afraid to ask any questions if something doesn’t seem right.