Vodafone launches controls to stop kids looking at 'adult content'

Mobile operators' promises to keep kids away from unsuitable content have finally borne fruit, with Vodafone announcing today it has its third-generation porn and gambling locked down.

From now on, access to 'adult' internet content – pornography, gambling, violent games, chat and dating services – will be blocked from all 3G phones as standard. Those wanting to peruse porn or the like will have to show the operator they're of age, either by registering a credit card or showing themselves in a Vodafone shop.

The filtering technology will stop anyone who hasn't registered as being over 18 from looking at content the operator has already determined contains adult themes or strongly suspects might do. Where's there's doubt, the site will be "quarantined" while Vodafone sends someone in to investigate.

All of the major UK operators have agreed to introduce technology to stop kids looking at adult content via their phones by December.