Here are some actions you could take to protect your child from cellphone crime

- Block your children from browsing adult sites or disable the internet on a phone.

- Tell you children not to enter into any unsolicited contracts via text messages.

- Research safe cellphone usage for children as there are a number of websites already created for parents, which bring together useful information in one place. l Know WASPA's code of conduct to ensure that children are not exposed to harm.

- Take steps to avoid any unnecessary harm befalling the family.

- Encourage your children to think carefully about the messages, photographs and other content about themselves that they post on social networks - and the consequences.l Block access to certain inappropriate material if this facility is offered by the mobile operator.

- Put rules in place for your children. Educate them about technology, and learn about the latest techno tools as they do and don't leave the responsibility to their big sisters or brothers.

Two useful websites specifically relevant to the South African environment are www.cellphonesafety.co.za and www.parentscorner.org.za