A parents worst nightmare is anything that could harm their child, writes Gillian Smith.

Sadly, not all parents know how to protect their children when they are on the internet. But there are methods to try to protect them.

Internet Explorer and Netscape browsers come with protection built in.

In Internet Explorer pick the tools menu, select internet options, then the content tab. Press enable and decide on a password.

Set the options for language on sex, nudity and violence. You can then move onto Microsofts site and download more detailed options.

These allow more defined filtering, such as blocking chat or permitting only artistic nudity.

Filter software can be bought online, often with free trials and it offers further options. www. netnanny.com lets you create up to 12 user profiles for different aged children.

www.surfcontrol.com offers Cyber Patrol, available for Windows or Mac. www.cybersitter. com claims a one-minute set up a bonus to many parents.

Stronger filters such as religious ones are available through www.afafil ter.com

If you doubt your children can stray across dangerous material, look at the terrifying statistics on www.surfonthe safeside.com set up by a UK mother.

It claims, one in four kids is accidentally exposed to nudity or sexual content online.

Hopefully the precautionary measures outlined in this article can help keep children from being in this statistic.

The best way to ensure childrens safety on the internet is by being aware of their surfing habits. Stay with them, and discuss what they are looking for.

Consider not having an internet-enabled computer in a childs room but in a family space a study or the lounge where a child is less likely to look for things you dont want them to see.