Mainz, Germany  - A special, secure internet chat service for children aged 8 to 12 is slated for its world premiere at this year's CeBit technology show from March 2-8.

Packed with security protocols, the free Windows Live Messenger for Kids is designed to protect children from offensive content, reported jugendschutz. net, a website specializing in protecting children. Working with representatives of the various German states, it developed the child-friendly messenger in collaboration with Microsoft and FSM, an e-commerce site that focuses on protecting minors.

"Children can't make contacts independently. Parents have to do that," said Inge Breichler of jugendschutz. net), explaining some of the new system's safety features. Additionally, the new messenger makes it impossible to send images or use a webcam.

Young chatters can end a chat session by clicking on a large red emergency button. Doing so immediately sends a transcript of the conversation to the child's parents. Breichler said the service also gives children a way to contact emergency services around the clock.

Additionally, Messenger for Kids only allows advertisements geared towards children. The programme will be available at www. kinder-messenger. de starting in March. (dpa)