Parents warned over kids' illegal downloads

One in 10 children who download from the internet unlawfully have been exposed to offensive or sexually explicit material, according to a recent survey of parents.

However, nearly 40% of mums and dads admitted they can not tell the difference between legal and illegal websites.

A survey by parenting website Netmums found many families were coming across inappropriate web content and serious security risks via downloads.

While parents may be familiar with warnings about internet grooming, they are less savvy about the dangers of illegal downloading.

As well as unsavoury content, dodgy downloads can bring computer viruses and wipe personal data.

Separate research carried out on behalf of the British Recorded Music Industry (BPI) found nearly a third of people downloaded offensive content instead of the song they wanted.

Another 41% received spyware while 39% got a virus through their illegal download.

The poll of 900 Netmums members found one in six did not know illegal file-sharing sites could result in computer damage or expose users to offensive material.

To help in the battle, internet safety charity Childnet is launching a free guide aimed at parents and teachers.

It offers advice on downloading music, films and TV programmes and to help parents find legal content, the charity's website has links to genuine download sites.

Childnet's Lucinda Fell told Sky News: "Downloading music and film content off the internet, there are dangers associated with that.

"There's the risk of unwelcome content, things that you might not want to see that are inappropriate.

"But there's also a risk of spyware and viruses - opening up your computer to others on the network and sharing your personal information that isn't secured."

It is hoped the new guide will help parents recognise the dangers of illegal downloads and help them with the challenge of keeping children safe.

:: The BPI survey was conducted by Harris Interactive and polled 5,300 adults.