by englisharticle. info
The arduous task of safeguarding children in cyberspace has resulted in the development of filtering and blocking tools. These tools include access control features available through the Internet service provider, websites geared toward children’s safe surfing and online interaction, and software that blocks, filters, and/or monitors objectionable content. In classroom settings, tools can integrate chunks of websites into a page accessible to students without going online. Whereas child-friendly sites provide a contained environment that features fun and educational activities, software may guide children’s online exploration with control access. These applications screen sites when a user attempts to gain access and uses researched lists to evaluate the location with a predetermined database of approved and blocked sites. Pre-established lists of blocked areas may be overridden to allow greater access or to restrict online exploration. Some software also provides features that prevent children from divulging personal information, such as their name, age, address, phone number, or school name, to online acquaintances through websites and chat rooms.
Users can establish a log of all sites accessed, programs used, and words and phrases typed or received. Similarly, many Internet providers and online services offer site blocking, restrictions on incoming e-mail, and children’s accounts that access specific services.
The most apparent weakness of these devices is the ability of a child to disable the tool or circumvent its control. Additional limitations occur when some illicit sites are overlooked and remain accessible or when valid sites are blocked for spurious or unknown reasons. A combination of guidelines for children’s use of the Internet and adult supervision are necessary supplements to protective software. Restrictions to appropriate content are only one component of a vigilant process for protecting children.
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