Cumbria Police are urging parents in the county to be vigilant after receiving "numerous" reports of children as young as nine receiving indecent images on their mobile phones during the coronavirus lockdown.

The constabulary said today that the Covid-19 lockdown meant children are spending even more time online, which is making them more vulnerable to receiving inappropriate messages and images.

A spokesman for the force said: "We would like to take this opportunity to remind parents of the importance of making sure your child is safe online, especially when using social media apps and online gaming.

"Technology changes all the time as does the popularity of apps and websites, so keeping on top of what your child is doing when they are using mobile phones and other devices is important.

"Top tips for parents include:

• Stay up-to-date. Ask about your child’s new gadgets, apps and websites – it is important to be aware of new technologies and apps that your child may be using.

• Monitor activity: Have access to your children’s social media account passwords if they are old enough to have their own accounts and check these accounts regularly.

• Set boundaries. Treat the online world as you would the ‘real’ world – consider what or who they may see, share and communicate with, as well as how long they spend online.

• Know what connects to the internet and how. Today many technologies connect to the internet – including TVs and games consoles. Check how they are accessing the internet – if it is through a neighbour’s Wi-Fi, your security settings may not be applied.

• Talk to children about online safety and the importance of not speaking to anyone that they don’t know and telling you if it does happen."

Any parent who is worried worried about content that their child has received online, can report this to the police by calling 101 or by emailing 101@cumbria.police.uk.