Inappropriate or explicit content

Sometimes, innocent searches can lead to not so innocent results.  And sometimes, children may look for things because they're curious.

It’s important to know how to reassure young people and help them know what to do and where to go for support if they see inappropriate content online.

If your child has seen inappropriate content online, you can:

• talk with them about what they've seen – let them know what is, and isn’t, appropriate for their age.
• they may have questions about what they’ve seen – you can get support for yourself by contacting our helpline to support you with tackling difficult conversations.
• find out how they came across the content so that you can minimise the risk in future e.g. by blocking certain sites and setting up parental controls, or educating your child about following links.
• reassure them they can come to you, another trusted adult or Childline if they're worried about something.
• get advice on setting up parental controls and make sure you review them regularly to ensure they are right for your family.
• avoid ‘sharenting’ or sharing explicit or inappropriate content you’ve seen online to raise awareness. Sharing content of physical or sexual abuse is illegal and can be upsetting to the child and others who come across it.
• report any inappropriate, illegal, explicit, identifying or distressing content to CEOP through their website. We also have more information about reporting content on our online reporting page.

Children may experience lots of different emotions when they see inappropriate, upsetting or distressing content online. It’s important to talk to your child about what they’re doing online and let them know to come to you if they see anything that upsets them.

Children who see inappropriate content might feel:

• confusion or uncertainty
• shame or guilt
• shock or disgust
• sadness
• excitement or happiness.