More protection.
Less worry.

Simple changes you can make together, with extra care for older relatives and a sensible start for children.

Helping an older relative

Screen calls. Agree a routine. Keep trusted people close.

Build good habits before the noise builds up.

Make changes together and with their agreement. The goal is confidence and control, not taking away independence.

Agree a no-pressure rule
No payment, password, verification code or remote access on an unexpected call. It is always fine to hang up and check.
Make trusted contacts easy to find
Write down family numbers and how to contact the bank. Save them in the phone. Check that the person can find voicemail and understands what screening does.
Screen before the phone rings
Start with the provider’s included controls. For persistent problems, consider a dedicated call blocker. trueCall offers devices including Secure, designed for older users. Check installation, ongoing costs and digital-landline compatibility first.
Test the exceptions
Make test calls from a saved number and an unfamiliar one. Plan for hospitals, carers and alarm services; some may use withheld numbers. Screening should not cut someone off from essential help.
Review together
Check missed calls and messages, and adjust settings. Ask local Trading Standards or the council whether support or call-blocker schemes are available; availability varies.

I do not make payments or share codes on unexpected calls.
I will call back on a number I trust.
I can speak to someone I know before deciding.

Keep this age-appropriate and consistent with the provider’s account rules. A parent or carer should help with recovery and privacy settings.

Use a separate address or suitable alias for optional game and app sign-ups. Keep school and essential account messages easy to find.
Set a unique password and two-step verification where available. Keep recovery details up to date.
Review contact permissions and public profile details together. Avoid publishing a personal email address.
Agree that unexpected prizes, urgent requests and new “friends” asking to move to another app are reasons to pause and talk.
Make it safe to ask for help: clicking a suspicious link should start a conversation, not a punishment.

For broader issues such as grooming, gaming and social media, use CEOP Education’s parent resources.

Official guidance and provider instructions. External links open in a new tab.

Reviewed 29 September 2026. Menus and services can change; follow the provider’s current instructions if they differ.