My Child Has Been Exposed to Extremist or Radicalisation Content
You have found extremist content on your child's device, noticed concerning changes in their language or behaviour, or discovered they are communicating with individuals promoting radical ideologies.
Finding extremist content on your child's device is alarming, but it does not mean your child has been radicalised. Young people can encounter this material through algorithms, peer sharing, or curiosity. What matters now is how you respond. A calm, non-judgemental approach gives you the best chance of understanding what has happened and guiding your child away from harmful influences.
What to do now
Stay Calm and Avoid Accusations
Do not confront your child aggressively or accuse them of being an extremist. Take a breath and approach the situation with curiosity rather than fear. Many young people encounter this content without fully understanding its nature.
✗ Do not: Do not label your child or use words like 'terrorist' or 'extremist' — this will shut down communication immediately.
Understand What They Have Seen
Gently ask your child about the content. Try to understand whether they sought it out, stumbled across it, or were sent it by someone. Ask how it made them feel and what they think about it.
Preserve Evidence Carefully
Screenshot or note down the content, URLs, usernames, and platforms involved. Do not delete anything yet, as this information may be needed by authorities if you decide to report.
Report the Content
Report the material to the platform where it was found. If you believe your child is being targeted or groomed by an extremist individual or group, contact the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321 or make a Prevent referral through your local authority.
Seek Specialist Support
Contact Educate Against Hate or the NSPCC for guidance tailored to your situation. If your child's school has a designated safeguarding lead, consider speaking to them in confidence.
What not to do
- ✗Do not punish your child for what they have viewed — this drives the behaviour underground.
- ✗Do not ignore the situation hoping it will resolve itself. Early intervention is key.
- ✗Do not discuss the situation publicly or on social media.
Preserving evidence
Why this matters
If you need to report to authorities or a platform, evidence can help.
- •Screenshot all extremist content, including URLs, usernames, group names, and timestamps.
- •Note any changes in your child's behaviour, language, or social circle that may be connected.
- •Keep a written log of dates and details in case you need to share this with professionals or authorities.
How to talk to your child
- ✓Ask open questions like 'I noticed this on your phone — can you tell me about it?' rather than making accusations.
- ✓Acknowledge that the content can seem exciting or provide a sense of belonging, and explain why it is dangerous without dismissing their feelings.
- ✓Reassure them that you are on their side and that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Who to contact
Anti-Terrorist Hotline
If you believe someone is being radicalised or there is an immediate threat
24/7
Prevent (Home Office)
To make a referral about someone at risk of radicalisation — contact through your local authority
Business hours via local authority; online resources available 24/7
NSPCC Helpline
If you are worried about a child's safety or need advice
24/7, 365 days a year
Educate Against Hate
For resources, advice, and guidance on protecting children from radicalisation
Online resources available 24/7
This guidance is for informational purposes. It is not a substitute for emergency services or professional safeguarding support. If a child is in immediate danger, call 999 (UK) or 911 (US) now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Resources
Was this page helpful?
Quick Reference — My Child Has Been Exposed to Extremist or Radicalisation Content
My Child Has Been Exposed to Extremist or Radicalisation Content — Quick Reference
Safe Child Guide — safechildguide.com
Do this:
- 1. Do not confront your child aggressively or accuse them of being an extremist. Take a breath and approach the situation with curiosity rather than fear. Many young people encounter this content without fully understanding its nature.
- 2. Gently ask your child about the content. Try to understand whether they sought it out, stumbled across it, or were sent it by someone. Ask how it made them feel and what they think about it.
- 3. Screenshot or note down the content, URLs, usernames, and platforms involved. Do not delete anything yet, as this information may be needed by authorities if you decide to report.
- 4. Report the material to the platform where it was found. If you believe your child is being targeted or groomed by an extremist individual or group, contact the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321 or make a Prevent referral through your local authority.
- 5. Contact Educate Against Hate or the NSPCC for guidance tailored to your situation. If your child's school has a designated safeguarding lead, consider speaking to them in confidence.
Do NOT do this:
- ✗ Do not punish your child for what they have viewed — this drives the behaviour underground.
- ✗ Do not ignore the situation hoping it will resolve itself. Early intervention is key.
- ✗ Do not discuss the situation publicly or on social media.
Stay calm. You are doing the right thing by looking for help. Your child needs your support, not your panic.
Last reviewed: 2026-03-30