LANCASHIRE academics have helped produce a groundbreaking internet safety website which reveals the grooming techniques of paedophiles to children.

The Cyberspace Research Unit at the University of Central Lancashire has worked with computer giant Microsoft, the Home Office and the BBC to create www.websafecrackerz.com

It was developed following the closure of Microsoft's internet chatrooms last September after fears that paedophiles were using them to 'groom' children.

Websafecrackerz offers advice on a range of cyber problems, including everyday issues such as SPAM junk e-mails, and less common occurrences like cyber-stalking, cyber-bullying or sexual harassment.

The site is designed to appeal to teenagers by resembling a video game. It includes a sample chatroom conversation in which a paedophile tries to groom a teenage girl to reveal grooming techniques.

Rachel O'Connell, director of the research unit at the university, said: "This resource will allow more communication between parents and children, and as such it makes an invaluable contribution to the whole issue of internet safety.

"Microsoft has made a step to rectify the deficit in knowledge of young people today. Companies need to be pro-active in safeguarding children from the potential negative consequences of using technology.

"We cannot stop children using the technology but we can empower them with the knowledge, tools and skills to navigate it safely."

The Cyberspace Research Unit has established itself as a European leader in its field by comprehensive research into criminal activity on the internet, which has been used to inform domestic and EU policy.