AN MP has backed a new campaign to keep children safe online.

Roberta Blackman-Woods is supporting the NSPCC’s Share Aware campaign, which aims to get families talking about how to socialise safely on the internet.

Earlier this week, Durham Police revealed they are investigating claims an internet predator masquerading as a member of pop sensations One Direction had tried to groom children via Skype, encouraging them to engage in sexually explicit conversations and send inappropriate photos.

An NSPCC survey found talking to strangers and sexual content to be the main concerns of children using social networking websites.

NSPCC boss Peter Wanless said: “Children are taught from an early age that it is good to share but doing so online can be very dangerous. We must all be Share Aware.”

Dr Blackman-Woods, the MP for Durham City, said: “I know that parents are increasingly concerned about their children’s safety online but they don’t often know where to start.

“That’s why I’m supporting the NSPCC’s campaign and urging all families to talk about being Share Aware on the internet.

“I hope parents will use the NSPCC’s no-nonsense guides to untangle the web, understand what their children may be doing online and feel confident talking to them about how to stay safe.”

For more information, call 0808-800-5000 or email: help@nspcc.org.uk