Safety Software
The amount of time that parents can spend supervising what their child is doing online is limited. And most definitely, it is not possible to control the millions of websites that exist on the Internet. Therefore there are different computer technologies developed that help to protect children. By installing Internet security software solutions on the computer, you provide your family with additional protection from the risks and threats connected with use of the Internet.
Internet safety software helps parents:
- to block and monitor access to the content and services inappropriate for children;
- to promote their family values and preferences;
- to manage the curiosity and cognitive nature of children and teenagers;
- to ensure an appropriate level of Internet access to children of different ages;
- to find out about friends that their children make online;
- to minimize risks of online commercial information and financial risks that endanger children;
- to control the personal information that children disclose on the Internet;
- to minimize the technical problems of the computer;
- to be aware that children may become exposed to abuse or intimidation.
Which is the most appropriate Internet safety software for your family?
It depends on your situation and family values:
- on the size of your family and children’s age;
- on the online activities being done on your computer;
- on the content you want to avoid.
There are many different versions of Internet safety software and a lot of them offer flexible options to combine technical solutions, so that your family can find the best combination.
Are there any children of preschool or primary school age in your family?
Consider using a filter with defined allowed websites and combine it with safe zones, family friendly web browsers and marking tools.
Is there more than one child in the family who uses the Internet?
Consider installing filter tools with different levels of access for each member of the family – both children and parents.
Do you download information or receive e-mails from unknown people?
Consider installing anti-virus programs and spam filters to protect computer against viruses.
Do you often perform money transfers on the Internet?
Consider installing an anti-spyware to ensure protection from online spam messages and possible fraud on the Internet.
You do not have to buy all of the software – probably some tools are already installed on your computer and you just have to activate them and adjust their settings. There are also many toll free versions of software available on the Internet with similar functionality as charged software. For more information contact your Internet service provider!
