The setting up of a hotline to report internet abuse is welcome news.

Unfortunately, many parents are not computer-literate and as such are not in a position to keep up with their children.

Of course, monitoring is always essential in such scenarios. For example, I believe that children below the age of 12, or perhaps 14 should not be allowed to have a computer in their room, but one which is in a more “public” area where the parents can at least see what their child is doing.

I even have my doubts as to whether children older than 14 should have their own computer in their room, but that is up to their parents to decide.

With the launch of the new service, parents who have no idea as to how a computer works, and others who might know but find themselves in difficulty, can now pick up the phone and get help.

I am sure that such a service was necessary in our country and that it will help curb abuse. Still, I believe that parents should be more on the alert.

C. Micallef

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