Sort Your Settings

The electronic, online world changes so quickly...so don’t get left behind.

‘Sort Your Settings’ for your children to ensure games console and smart phones are set up safely and securely

The successful Sort Your Settings campaign is in its third year and continues to raise awareness around online safety. The campaign, launched in 2022, provides parents with safeguarding tips, tricks and advice on how to make online devices safer for children, a welcomed initiative kicking off on Black Friday and continuing throughout the Christmas shopping period.

Our webpage has been refreshed to include up-to-date information about new and popular online games and social media platforms. There’s advice on all aspects of online safety, including how to access parental controls as well as information about social media age restrictions, game age ratings, chat settings and more.

As part of the campaign, a short social media film encouraging parents to visit the Essex Police webpage will be shared on our platforms and the Business Crime Team will visit businesses across the county to ensure parents are equipped with the tools to keep children safe as soon as purchases are made in store.  

PC Glen Foote of the Business Crime Team said:
“Our goal is to empower everyone with the knowledge necessary to make informed choices that best suit their needs and to help them keep themselves and their loved ones safe online.
"Sort Your Settings provides essential advice on protecting young and vulnerable individuals in the digital space. It offers practical tips for managing online gaming, social media, smartphones, and other devices to ensure a secure online experience. Together, we are dedicated to making the online world safer for everyone and assisting parents and guardians in navigating the challenges of digital safety.
“We are grateful for the support we have received from local stores such as Game, Currys, Smyths Toys, and CEX. Their partnership has been invaluable in helping us create a safer environment where families are more informed and prepared to handle the challenges of the digital world.”

The campaign continues to receive positive feedback amongst business. A Store Manager at Game comments:
“I find 'Sort Your Settings' really valuable. It provides clear and useful advice that helps our customers keep their children safe online.
“The tips on privacy settings and parental controls are particularly useful, it makes it easier for parents to navigate and understand, especially when they are giving their children new devices.”

Here are five top tips to help keep you and your child safe when online:

• Protect your identity. Do not share personal information.
• Think before you post. Once posted its no longer yours.
• Check your privacy settings.
• Games and Apps have age ratings for a reason.
• Make use of the parental controls.

For more information about loot boxes, chat functions and how to make your child safer online visit our 'Sort Your Settings' webpage.