PARENTS are being urged to check their child's phone to keep them safe online.

Police have posted a warning about more than a dozen mobile phone apps parents should be aware of this Christmas.

Messenger Newspapers:

Many of the apps are designed for adults, but others are well used by young people, such as Whatsapp and Snapchat.

Others include dating and social networking apps such as Badoo and Kik. Kik, say police, allows anyone to contact and direct a message a child. Calculator% can be used to hide photos and browser history.

Posting on Twitter, Police Community Support Officer Craig Blacha wrote: "Just a handful of social media apps for parents/Carers to be aware of this Christmas.#Knowledgeispower if you have concerns whilst on the internet visit @CEOPUK likewise if you have concerns around exploitation please call your local police on 101."