What are Mobile Internet Enabled Devices?

Mobile Internet enabled devices are electronic devices (such as mobile phones) which connect to the Internet via a wireless link.  They can be moved around freely and constantly remain connected to the Internet.

The devices communicate through a technology known as '3G' (or third generation wireless) and enable information such as video, audio and graphics to be transferred across the Internet.

Because of 3G and the sophisticated functionality of many devices, popular Internet services such as:

• Internet browsing
• email
• Chat
• Instant messaging
• Video streaming

can be accessed by children through a remote wireless connection as long as they have configured their device correctly.

On top of this ease of unsupervised access, many devices also have the ability to take digital pictures or play digitized music making the notion of mobile access to the Internet very appealing to children.

A child could take a digital picture, for example, and email it to another person immediately, all through the one device.  No other equipment is required.

This example highlights potential privacy problems which exist when using mobile Internet enabled devices - there are a range of other specific issues also.

By becoming aware of the various Internet safety issues and educating children on appropriate use of the devices, you will help ensure they remain protected online.

Next:

What are the Dangers of Mobile Internet Enabled Devices?