The British government is to launch a social media dictionary so parents can translate popular acronyms¹ used by teenagers online.

英国政府将发布一部社交媒体用语词典，以帮助家长翻译青少年在网上使用的流行缩写词。

The language guide decodes² terms such as GNOC (get naked on camera) and ASL (age, sex, location) which are often used by youngsters using anonymous³ chat rooms.

The tool will help eagle-eyed parents spot when their child issues a P999, also known as a parent alert, to make their online friends aware their parents are around.

Other definitions include zerg (to gang up on someone), POS (parents over shoulder), PAL⁴ (parents are listening and 420 (marijuana).

The guide is part of Parent Info, an online service announced on September 7 by the Department for Education. It aims to provide tips on navigating⁵ teenage life and give adults the confidence to talk about sensitive topics with their children.

Secretary of State for Education and Minister for Women and Equalities Nicky Morgan said it was crucial that parents were educated on how to keep their children safe online.

She said: 'The internet is an incredibly powerful tool, which is changing the way our children learn and stay in touch. But we must also make sure we do everything we can to help them stay safe online. As a parent myself, I understand how important it is to know your child is safe and that's why this new online service is so important.