SafeToNet, one of the world's leading cyber safety specialists that safeguards 
children online, has acquired 77 German mobile phone stores previously owned by 
Fexcom GMBH and One Brand Solutions GMBH. The stores which sell network 
contracts from Deutsche Telekom and Vodafone will be renamed as SafeToNet 
Family Stores and will sell smart phones and tablets that are pre-loaded or 
bundled with SafeToNet's online safety software.

SafeToNet's safeguarding technology runs on a child's smart device and uses AI 
to detect and filter harmful content in real-time. It is in use by children in 
over 110 countries around the world but this is the first time it has been 
included with the sale of any smart device irrespective of manufacturer. 

Richard Pursey, executive chairman of SafeToNet, said: "This is a critical 
development in tackling online harms such as bullying, abuse, aggression and 
sextortion. We are bringing cyber safety to the high street and helping parents 
to safeguard their children when buying a phone or tablet. The SafeToNet Family 
Stores will employ cyber-safety experts who will guide and advise parents and 
children on how to keep safe online.

"This marks a pivotal moment in online safety. We have been frustrated with the 
social networks and messaging apps who have failed to keep children safe on 
their platforms. We are also disappointed with the handset manufacturers who 
should not make a phone for children that do not have safety features as 
standard. As a result, we decided to own our own mobile phone company and 
engage more closely with the Telco's so that we can make a positive change for 
children online. Parents can now buy a smart device for their child that will 
automatically be safe out of the box."

Georg Schmitz-Axe, Head of Partners at Deutsche Telekom said: "The SafeToNet 
Family Stores are an excellent and promising asset to our retail presence in 
Germany. We fully support SafeToNet's mission to safeguard children and look 
forward to collaborating on this project for years to come."

Gottfried Werner, CEO SafeToNet EMEA said "This acquisition increases the 
awareness of online harms across Germany. The Family Stores will sell a wide 
range of products suitable for children, including SafeToPlay, a product that 
allows young children to safely play online. Too many children are harmed 
online and this initiative will make a positive difference to so many."

Source: SafeToNet