TalkTalk exec says technology cannot ensure internet safety

TalkTalk's communications director Mark Schmid has admitted technical solutions alone cannot keep children safe when using the internet.

Writing on the internet service provider's (ISP's) official blog, Mr Schmid said there is no "silver bullet" when it comes to preventing youngsters from accessing adult content.

However, he insisted TalkTalk's recently launched HomeSafe network-level security product is a step in the right direction.

Among the software's features is KidsSafe, a set of parental controls that allows the account holder to block access to any content, such as violence, gambling and pornography.

Mr Schmid commented: "No technical solution alone is able to solve the issue of child internet safety, but we do think HomeSafe is a good start."

The TalkTalk exec went on to praise a recent BBC Radio 4 debate on the topic featuring Children's Minister Tim Loughton, who is also the co-chair of the UK Council for Child Internet Safety.

During the talk, which aired on Woman's Hour, the presenter argued that cinemas would not allow under-12s in to watch The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, so ISPs should take the same attitude towards unsuitable content.