More than half of children who use the internet regularly lie to their parents about what they look at while online, a study has found. The report comes as broadband penetration grows with wireless broadband connections encouraging the growth of broadband access in children's bedrooms.

TalkTalk, the UK's second largest broadband provider, which carried out the research, said that parents must set up good lines of communication with their children in order to ensure they are protected against the pitfalls of unrestricted internet use.

The study found that 62% of children lied to their parents about what kind of websites they access via the family broadband conenction, while 55% said they knew more than their parents about the internet.

The findings have prompted TalkTalk to encourage parents to remain on their guard and monitor their child's internet use.

Tristia Clarke, of TalkTalk, said: "We all know there are threats in the virtual world just as there are in the real world, but it's crucial that parents' responses to these risks are measured and sensible.

"Our research underlines the need for greater communication between parents and children."

If you need help to choose a broadband package with the best parental controls to ensure that you can control your family's browsing habits, why not speak to our broadband experts for free on 0800 1 388 388.