Internet Safety and Parental Control

Is the internet safe for children?

It is and it isn't. Just like any major town or city there are probably parts of the internet you just don't want your kids to see, but with more and more kids having access to the internet away from parents eyes, just how can a caring parent who still wants their children to benefit from being online ensure safetey?

Parental Control Filtering Software

A 24 hour a day supervision of children on the internet is pretty difficult if you are a busy parent, and I doubt the kids would enjoy that very much either, so there are a number of software packages around that will help us as parents control the access our children have the online resources.

Often known as 'Parental Control' or 'Internet Content Filtering' systems, these packages can help you decide what is fit for your children to see online, and block the darker side of the internet.

madesafe Internet Content Filter

One product we have reviewed is madeSafe Internet content filtering software. It has been developed to protect your family from the dangers of the Internet. It also enables you to customise your PC so that your child can access the very best web sites, as well as teaching them to be safe and understand the Privacy Code.

What protects our children?

Many parents also need some education. For example, do you think that antivirus and firewalls will protect you from unwated images and websites? Wrong. These programs may prevent viruses and hackers but not protect against unwanted content. maidsafe comes with a 14 page guide on the dangers of the internet and how to help your kids get the best out of it.

Its not just Internet content we should be wary of

Just like texting Instant Messaging (IM) programs like MSN Messenger are prolific and growing in popularity. Imagine sending free text messages between friends and thats pretty much what IM is all about. Who are your children talking to? Are you sure they are really children? maidsafe will allow parents to block chat rooms completely or set times to allow limited access.

Block Pop-ups

While innocently searching for music or downloads, very graphic pop-ups can often appear. Images we would not think appropriate for our children. madesafe can block these as well.

Safe Surfing

Scaremongering is headline making news most weeks. By being prepared and vigilant you can help your family get the best out the great resource that is the internet, without exposing yourselves to the dangers. Happy Surfing!