Officers visited a Forest Gate school last week to speak with students about staying safe online.

Newham police promoted the responsible use of online technology during their time at Azhar Academy Islamic Girls School in Romford Road last Thursday.

The visit was aimed at more than 50 year nine students.

Chief Inspector Shabnam Chaudhri opened the event and officers from ‘Prevent’ also spoke to the girls about radicalisation.

PC Darren Farr, from Forest Gate South Neighbourhoods Policing Team, said: “The internet is a fantastic tool for children and young people to use, to explore the world, connect with people and learn about new things.

“But unfortunately we hear more and more about the dangers of using social media and online apps. Children can easily access violent images, films or pornography and can be vulnerable to being bullied or groomed online.

“Parents must be the primary force in managing the way children use technology and the internet.

“They need to stay ahead of their children in terms of learning how to use new devices, so that they can block their access to harmful material and protect them from the things that might hurt them.”