Seven out of 10 Indian kids have been exposed to nudity and violence, or have been asked by a stranger to meet them in person when they are online, security software-maker Symantec today said.

According to Symantec's Norton Online Family Report 2010, 77 per cent of Indian kids have experienced some 'negative' situation online, while only half of the Indian parents interviewed thought their children had such an experience.

For example, only 24 per cent of the parents interviewed thought it was possible for a stranger to try to add their child as a friend on a social networking site, but 55 per cent of the children surveyed said it has happened to them.

"This report provides a glimpse into the online lives of children and how tuned in parents are to their online activities," Symantec Consumer Business Head Asia Effendy Ibrahim said.

The third edition of the report, which is part of a global survey of 2,800 children and more than 7,000 adults across 14 countries, examined the actual online experiences of kids compared to their parents' perception.

Though parents have an idea of the amount of time their children spend online, only 45 per cent of parents realise their kids are having negative experiences, the study said.

"While parents are generally aware of the kid's activities online, they underestimate the extent to which kids download music and videos. During the process, kids may be exposed to inappropriate content and may be encouraged to disclose personal details," Symantec Country Sales Manager (India) (Consumer Products and Solutions) Gaurav Kanwal said.

These negative online experiences result in an emotional impact as well. While 41 per cent of the children surveyed felt angry, 40 per cent said they were upset by the experience and 35 per cent said they were afraid.

"Along with a variety of emotions like being scared or angry, we have also met kids who feel personally responsible for these negative experiences, especially downloading a virus or being scammed," Ibrahim said.

Kids, however, now find it easier to talk to parents about their online activities.

"In addition to relying on their parents if something bad happened online, nearly nine in 10 report they follow family rules for Internet use," Ibrahim said.

Symantec suggests that parents undertake an open discussion with their children and set rules for Internet usage.

"These days, a lot of softwares are available that allow parents to keep a tab on the activities of the kids online.

However, it is important to discuss it with them rather than forcing them," Kanwal said.