Protecting children and young people online

Block access to 18+ content

We want to make sure our younger network users are safe and protected when they’re online. That’s why we’ve made it easy for you block content and websites that aren’t appropriate for under 18s by setting up an age-restricted content bar.

The content bar works on the Vodafone mobile network only. So if your device is connected to the internet over WiFi, adult content may still be available - you can manage this through your broadband content provider.

Whether your device is connected to the internet using our data network or our home broadband network, you can set up a bar that blocks sites hosting content with hate, violence, weapons, drugs, crime, alcohol, tobacco, gambling and dating themes.

Here's how to block this content on your online account

If you have Vodafone Secure Net, you can also restrict your and your family's access to certain types of content using the Vodafone Secure Net app, or by logging in to Secure Net online

Code of practice – how we classify content

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) is an independent body appointed by UK mobile operators that provides a framework for classifying content inappropriate for users under 18s.

In January 2004, UK mobile operators published a code of practice enabling us to regulate content on mobile devices ourselves. After formal Ofcom reviews, the third version of the code was published on 1 July 2013. 

Please see the Mobile UK website for the UK Code of practice for the self-regulation of content on mobile.

Or maybe you’ve found a site we’ve restricted that you feel shouldn’t be?

To let us know, email our team at contentclassification@vodafone.com 

Partners we work with

As well as working with the BBFC to classify content, we work with the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP), the Home Office and Virtual Global Taskforce. We signed an agreement to work with CEOP on increasing child awareness of internet safety.

We were also the first mobile operator to sign up to the Internet Watch Foundation blocking list for illegal sites.

Info and advice for parents

Our Digital Parenting page is a hub of expert advice and resources that you can use to help keep your kids safe online.