WHAT CAN I DO?
It is vital that you know if your child uses chat applications online, and that they understand the importance of keeping their personal information personal. If your child uses IM then it is a good idea to ask them to show you how it works—in this way you can also gauge who they have on their contact list and if there is anyone how they don't know in the real world. It is also a good idea to ask them if they know how to block someone who they no longer wish to talk to. You can also direct them to the young people's website, where they can watch films and play games on how to stay safer online.
Consider creating some family rules which you will all agree to on online use, including not giving out personal information, or talking to strangers without discussing it. Remind your children that they should never meet up with someone that they have met online without you or another adult going with them.
If you are concerned that your child may be at risk, it may be necessary to log or monitor their conversations, and this can be done though some forms of filtering software - but this should be considered carefully, since a child may feel that they have to hide more from their parents if they think they are not trusted. GetNetWise has lists of filtering and monitoring software.
If you think your child may be in touch with an adult online, make a report or call 999 if they are at immediate risk.