The first phone set-up guide for parents

We'll guide you through setting up their device safely, step by step.

Find age-based guidance quickly

Parental controls & payments

Help prevent surprise bills and in-app scams by managing how your child can use their device and spend online.

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  • Require parental approval for app installs

    Stop apps being downloaded without your knowledge.
    View guide

  • Disable or password protect in-app purchases

    Prevent unauthorised spending in games and apps.
    View guide

  • Remove payment cards from account

    Reduce the risk of surprise charges.
    View guide

  • Review purchase and subscription history

    Check for unfamiliar charges and how to cancel.
    View guide

Did you know?

Children under 13 are 3 times as likely to make unintentional in-app purchases.

Lock down privacy settings

Adjust privacy settings to help protect your child from strangers and limit what they share online.

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  • Set profiles to private

    Limit who can see your child's content to people they know and trust.
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  • Turning off location sharing

    Stop apps and devices from sharing their location.
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  • Limiting who can message or follow

    Reduce unwanted contact from strangers.
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  • Disabling contact syncing where possible

    Prevent apps from suggesting people they may know.
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Did you know?

1 in 5 teens say they've received unwanted message or friend request from a stranger.

Age-appropriate filters and limits

Filter content and set age limits to make sure what they see is right for their age.

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  • Turn on SafeSearch

    Enable SafeSearch on Google, YouTube and browsers.
    View guide

  • Enable YouTube Restricted Mode or YouTube Kids

    Restrict mature content or use YouTube Kids for younger children.
    View guide

  • Set age limits for apps, films, music and games

    Use parental controls to set appropriate age ratings.
    View guide

  • Use built-in content filters and screen time limits

    Help build healthy digital habits.
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Did you know?

70% of children aged 8 - 12 say they've seen content online that has upset them.

Age-appropriate sense check

Helping your child stay safe, balanced and confident online at every age with advice and guidance from Internet Matters.