The spotlight has again fallen on the control of mobile content, amid recent reports of minors as young as 12 accessing pornography via their mobile phones.
While South African mobile operators are putting measures in place to prevent children from being exposed to harmful content, the industry feels final responsibility rests with parents.
Parents have the overall responsibility to monitor what their children access on their handsets, says Vanashree Pillay, Cell C`s executive head of corporate communication.
"Cell C takes the issue of children`s access to adult content very seriously. We are in discussions with vendors regarding software filters that will prohibit children from accessing adult content on their handsets through any possible means," states Pillay.
Lynne Cawood, ChildLine`s director, says parents need to communicate with their children and explain to them the harmful effects of pornography.
"Children are very curious about their sexuality. Open communication between parents and children is the best way for children to learn about their sexuality. Pornography is harmful to their sexual growth."
Vodacom has developed a guide to help parents educate themselves regarding latest mobile technology.
"Until recently, mobile phones have largely been used to make voice calls or send text messages. Today, mobile phones offer a wide range of features including picture messaging, downloadable pictures and video clips, games and Internet access, all of which children can also access," explains Dot Field, spokesperson for Vodacom.
"We have produced a 'Parents` Guide to Mobile Phones`, which includes 'Top Tips for Parents`. This is to ensure that parents, with their children, are able to decide what is safe and appropriate to use."
As a further measure to assist parents, Vodacom has implemented an "opt-out" service. Parents can activate this service from the handset by dialling *111*123#. This feature will ensure the user will not be able to view adult content from the SIM card or cellphone number.
MTN and Virgin Mobile did not respond to queries regarding their mobile content policies.
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