GetNetWise

Definitions

Contracts with Kids discuss and set up rules for computer use.

Time Limiting limits time online.

Filtering & Blocking limits access to some sites, words, and/or images.

Block Outgoing Content prevents kids from revealing personal information online.

Browsers for Kids do not display inappropriate words or images.

Kid-Oriented Search Engines perform limited searches or screen search results.

Monitoring Tools alert adults to online activity without blocking access.

There are both pros and cons to keep in mind when using these types of tools.

Please Note: GetNetWise staff gathered this information from the companies that make these tools. We cannot guarantee the effectiveness of these products, nor do we endorse any products.

Other Information

How ISPs are Helping -- Many Internet and online service providers also offer safety solutions by selling or including these tools with their services and adopting "Acceptable Use Policies", or "Terms of Service Agreements".

Web Ratings Systems -- Many companies that produce Web sites voluntarily rate and label their sites, using a system knows as "PICS" (Platform for Internet Content Selection).

Internet Issues in the Community -- When children use the Internet in school or in a library, their experiences will be different than when they are at home. Libraries and schools may have different rules for Internet use than your family, because they must serve the needs of diverse children and families.

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Home / Tools for Families

Tools for Families


Your search for information about tools for families produced the results at the bottom of this page. If you are going to print out the information, wait for the page to finish loading on the screen before you start.


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1 - 10 of 38

 
ICRAplus
Safe Chat Universal Messenger with Parental Controls
Microsoft Internet Explorer
Gaggle E-mail
WebBlock
MyWeb
Safe Access
SurfPass
KaZipsterā„¢
Cyber Patrol

The information below tells you more about the tool features, including whether or not they can be set up differently for different family members and what information is available to help you decide whether or not a tool reflects your family values. If you decide that one of these tools may be what you want, click on the underlined name (at the top of the description) to reach the tool's web site.

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Or check the box(es) next to the functions you want.
What the tool does:
Browsers for Kids
Blocks Outgoing Info
Filters Other
Filters Illegal
Filters Violence
Filters Hate
Filters Sex
Limits Time
Monitors
Pre-Selected Content Service
No Preference
Technology:
News Groups/Usenet
FTP
Instant Messages
Chat Rooms
Email
WWW
Other
Peer to Peer Networks
Any Technology
Your Computer:
MacOS 9
Windows NT
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Mac OS X
Windows XP
Windows ME
Windows 2000
Linux
OS-independent
Windows Vista
Any Computer

Limit my search to filtered ISPs only.

Limit my search to kid-oriented search engines only.
Note: GetNetWise staff gathered this information from the companies that make these tools. We cannot guarantee the effectiveness of these products, nor do we endorse any products.

 

ICRAplus

By ICRA

Available since June, 2003

The makers of ICRAplus, ICRA, described their product as: The newest version of ICRAfilter, which is rooted in self-labeling and user empowerment, while delivering unparalleled flexibility and choice. In addition to reading labels and templates, ICRAplus can receive information using a variety of different techniques.

  • Content analysis by AI
  • Large scale databases of URLs
  • Image recognition technologies
Modules can be plugged into ICRAplus and controlled through a common user interface.

ICRAplus is a product that:

  • Limits the total number of hours or the time of day that your children may be online.
  • Prevents the display of most sexually explicit material.
  • Prevents the display of most graphically violent material.
  • Prevents the display of most material advocating hate groups and their messages.
  • Prevents the display of other categories of material.
  • ICRAplus is an international platform. Parents can choose to download many types of products both commercial and non-commercial to work with the ICRA labels. What additional services and protections are offered depend on the parents choice.

ICRAplus is available for these platforms:

  • Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows ME
  • Windows NT, Windows 2000
  • Windows XP
  • ICRAplus requires special software: Free filter downloaded from the ICRA website.

    ICRAplus can be password protected. It does support multiple users.

    For more information about this tool, including how to purchase or use it, visit its web site: www.icra.org

    (NOTE: GetNetWise staff were unable to find a Privacy Policy on this web site. We urge you to be careful when shopping at or sharing information with sites that do not post privacy policies.)

    Time Limiting

    Depending on the preferences set by the user, when ICRAplus is installed on your computer to limit the time spent on the computer or on the Internet,

    • A warning will flash on the screen when the user's time is almost up.
    • The program will limit the total amount of time spent online.
    • You can set the program to only allow Internet access during certain periods of time.

    Filtering

    There are many different types of filtering products. To begin with, some products are installed on your own computer at home (client-side), while others are installed on the larger computers at your Internet service provider (server-side). ICRAplus is client-based.

    Depending on user choices, ICRAplus can control access to web pages, the use of email, access to chat rooms, the movement of files in and out of your computer (FTP), access to newsgroups (Usenet), access to instant messaging, access to Peer to Peer networks, access to other Internet capabilities.

    Different filtering tools set up their standards of what material should or should not be filtered in different ways. With ICRAplus,

    • You will be able to choose from pre-set categories what material you want to be filtered.
    • You will be able to develop your own list of material to be filtered, starting from scratch.

    You may also want to review the lists of keywords or web pages, or the criteria that the tool company uses to arrive at those lists. With ICRAplus, you can review the list of keywords, the list of filtered URL's (web page addresses), the company's criteria for filtering a web page.

    There are several technologies for determining which sites should be blocked and which should be permitted. Each of them has important strengths, but none of them is perfect. ICRAplus uses the following:

    • PICS ratings (an independent rating system)

    Some filtering tools allow you to control access in a number of different categories. ICRAplus offers these categories: Nudity, sexual material, language, gambling, violence, promotion of tobacco, alcohol, drug and weapon use.

    August 2003

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    Safe Chat with Parental Controls

    By Zihtec Company LLP

    Available since May 2006

    The makers of Safe Chat, Zihtec Company, described their product as: Safe Chat with Parental Controls is a universal messenger that supports MSN, Yahoo, AIM, and ICQ network. The parental controls features lets the parents block other messengers, mask foul language, block Web based chat sites and set chat access hours. Safe Chat will sed an e-mail alert to parents when someome signs in to a chat account or to the parental controls panel.

    Safe Chat is a product that:

    • Limits the total number of hours or the time of day that your children may be online.
    • Prevents the display of most sexually explicit material.
    • Prevents the display of most graphically violent material.
    • Is an Internet browser specially designed for younger users.
    • Prevents selected personal information from being transmitted from your computer.
    • Monitors the use of your computer or the access your children have to the Internet.

    Safe Chat is available for these platforms:

    • Windows 98, Windows ME
    • Windows NT, Windows 2000
    • Windows XP

    Safe Chat can be password protected. It does support multiple users.

    For more information about this tool, including how to purchase or use it, visit its web site: www.safechat.org

    Time Limiting

    When Safe Chat is installed on your computer to limit the time spent on the computer or on the Internet,

    • You can set the program to only allow Internet access during certain periods of time.

    Safe Chat limits access hours to IM chatting.

    Filtering

    There are many different types of filtering products. To begin with, some products are installed on your own computer at home (client-side), while others are installed on the larger computers at your Internet service provider (server-side). Safe Chat is client-based.

    Safe Chat can control access to chat rooms, access to instant messaging.

    Different filtering tools set up their standards of what material should or should not be filtered in different ways. With Safe Chat,

    • You will be able to develop your own list of material to be filtered, using the company's list as a starter.

    You may also want to review the lists of keywords or web pages, or the criteria that the tool company uses to arrive at those lists. With Safe Chat, you can review the list of keywords, the list of filtered URL's (web page addresses).

    There are several technologies for determining which sites should be blocked and which should be permitted. Each of them has important strengths, but none of them is perfect. Safe Chat uses the following:

    • the web page address (URL)
    • Human review of web sites
    • A list of keywords
    • A list of keywords combined with an analysis of the context in which they appear

    Blocking Outgoing Information

    When Safe Chat is running on your system,

    • You can prevent your children from using chat rooms online.
    • You can prevent your children from using ICQ or other forms of instant messaging.
    • You can edit out the transmission of specific kinds of information, like your address, telephone number, or credit card number.

    Monitoring

    Safe Chat is designed to help you keep an eye on what your computer is being used for, even when you can't be there in person. With it installed on your system, you can review your children's online chat, your children's instant messaging sessions.

    The program can be used alongside a filtering or blocking tool.

    The program can be set up to warn children when they attempt to access inappropriate material.

    August 2006

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    Microsoft Internet Explorer

    The makers of Microsoft Internet Explorer, Microsoft Corporation, described their product as follows: "The Content Advisor provides parents enhanced control over what content their children can view on the Internet. With Content Advisor, you can: Use the Parental Internet Content Selection (PICS) Rules to decide what your children can and cannot see when they browse; use a trusted organization's rating system to determine which sites your children can and cannot see; specify approved and disapproved sites for your children, regardless of the way sites have rated themselves."

    Available since 1994

    Microsoft Internet Explorer is a product that:

  • Prevents the display of most sexually explicit material.
  • Prevents the display of most graphically violent material.
  • Prevents the display of most material advocating hate groups and their messages.
  • Prevents the display of most material advocating illegal activity, such as drug use, bomb making, or underage drinking and gambling.
  • Prevents the display of material in other categories.
  • Microsoft Internet Explorer is available for Macintosh, Windows 3.1, Windows 95, Windows 98, and Windows NT. It does not require. The settings can be protected by a password that would prevent anyone but you from changing the way the program runs. It is not possible to configure the program for multiple users. If you have a problem, technical support can be reached at (425) 635-7123. For more information about this tool, including how to purchase or use it, visit its web site: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/ie/. You may also wish to visit Microsoft's page describing how to activate PICS-based filtering in new versions of Internet Explorer.

    Filtering

    There are many different types of filtering products. To begin with, some products are installed on your own computer at home (client-side), while others are installed on the larger computers at your Internet service provider (server-side). Microsoft Internet Explorer is a Client-side product. It is available for home use.

    When Microsoft Internet Explorer is installed on your computer,

      

    It can control access to web pages.

    YES
      

    It can control the use of email.

    NO
      

    It can control access to chat rooms.

    NO
      

    It can control the movement of files in and out of your computer (FTP).

    NO
      

    It can control access to newsgroups (Usenet).

    NO
      

    It can control access to ICQ and other forms of instant messaging.

    NO
      

    It can control access to other Internet capabilities.

    NO

    Different filtering tools set up their standards of what material should or should not be filtered in different ways. With Microsoft Internet Explorer,

      

    The company alone will decide what material will be filtered.

    NO
      

    You will be able to choose from pre-set categories what material you want to be filtered.

    YES
      

    You will be able to permanently edit the company's list of material to be filtered.

    NO
      

    You will be able to completely override the company's list of material to be filtered.

    NO
      

    You will be able to develop your own list of material to be filtered, using the company's list as a starter.

    NO
      

    You will be able to develop your own list of material to be filtered, starting from scratch.

    NO

    You may also want to review the lists of keywords or web pages, or the criteria that the tool company uses to arrive at those lists. With Microsoft Internet Explorer,

      

    You can review the list of keywords.

    NO
      

    You can review the list of filtered URL's (web page addresses).

    NO
      

    You can review the company's criteria for filtering a web page.

    YES

    There are several technologies for determining which sites should be filtered and which should be permitted. Each of them has important strengths, but none of them are perfect. Microsoft Internet Explorer uses the following:

      

    PICS ratings (an independent rating system).

    YES
      

    Using the web page address (URL).

    YES
      

    Human review of web sites.

    NO
      

    A list of keywords.

    NO
      

    A list of keywords combined with an analysis of the context in which they appear.

    NO
      

    Some other technology.

    NO

    Finally, many filtering tools allow you to control access in a number of different categories. For Microsoft Internet Explorer, those categories include the following: Any PICS-compatible rating system category. For more information, click here.

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    Safe Student Email and Blogs

    By Gaggle.Net, Inc.

    Available since 1999

    Safe Student Email and Blogs is available for these platforms:

    • Macintosh OS 9, Macintosh OS X
    • Windows Vista Windows ME
    • Windows NT, Windows 2000
    • Windows XP
    • Linux
    • OS-independent

    The makers of Safe Student Email and Blogs, Gaggle.Net, Inc., described their product as: Gaggle.net provides safe, student email accounts, blogging tools, message boards, chat rooms and digital lockers designed specifically for the needs students and teachers. All email and blogs are monitored for inappropriate text and pornographic images with questionable content routed to a teacher or administrator for review.

    Safe Student Email and Blogs is a product that:

    • Prevents the display of most sexually explicit material.
    • Prevents the display of most graphically violent material.
    • Prevents the display of most material advocating hate groups and their messages.
    • Prevents the display of most material advocating illegal activity, such as drug use, bomb making, or underage drinking and gambling.
    • Prevents selected personal information from being transmitted from your computer.

    For more information about this tool, including how to purchase or use it, visit its web site: http://www.gaggle.net

    Blocking Outgoing Information

    When Safe Student Email and Blogs is running on your system,

    • You can permit your children to send email only to a pre-approved list of recipients.

    Filtering

    There are many different types of filtering products. To begin with, some products are installed on your own computer at home (client-side), while others are installed on the larger computers at your Internet service provider (server-side). Safe Student Email and Blogs is server-based. It is available for home use.

    Safe Student Email and Blogs can control the use of email, access to chat rooms.

    Different filtering tools set up their standards of what material should or should not be filtered in different ways. With Safe Student Email and Blogs,

    • You will be able to choose from pre-set categories what material you want to be filtered.
    • You will be able to permanently edit the company's list of material to be filtered.
    • You will be able to completely override the company's list of material to be filtered.
    • You will be able to develop your own list of material to be filtered, using the company's list as a starter.

    You may also want to review the lists of keywords or web pages, or the criteria that the tool company uses to arrive at those lists. With Safe Student Email and Blogs, you can review the list of keywords, the list of filtered URL's (web page addresses), the company's criteria for filtering a web page.

    There are several technologies for determining which sites should be blocked and which should be permitted. Each of them has important strengths, but none of them is perfect. Safe Student Email and Blogs uses the following:

    • PICS ratings (an independent rating system)
    • the web page address (URL)
    • Human review of web sites
    • A list of keywords
    • Anti-Pornography Scanner for analyzing pictures. The system can tell the difference between kids in bathing suits and offensive images.

    Some filtering tools allow you to control access in a number of different categories. Safe Student Email and Blogs offers these categories:

    • Sexually explicit material
    • Graphic Violence
    • Gambling
    • Pornographic images

    General Tool Information

    Updates

    Safe Student Email and Blogs does have regular updates to the product.

    These updates do NOT carry an additional cost.

    Customization

    Safe Student Email and Blogs can be password protected.

    Safe Student Email and Blogs does support multiple users.

    Tech Support

    Safe Student Email and Blogs tech support is available via:

    • Phone
    • Email
    • Online Knowledge Base

    Language

    Safe Student Email and Blogs is available in Spanish.

    April 2008

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    WebBlock

    Version 1.0

    By AB Software

    Available since February 2003

    The makers of WebBlock, AB Software, described their product as: a service that applies a rating to Web sites. It allows users to select rated sites to view or reject.

    WebBlock is a product that:

    • Prevents the display of most sexually explicit material.
    • Prevents the display of most graphically violent material.
    • Prevents the display of most material advocating hate groups and their messages.
    • Prevents the display of most material advocating illegal activity, such as drug use, bomb making, or underage drinking and gambling.
    • Prevents the display of other categories of material.
    • Monitors the use of your computer or the access your children have to the Internet.

    WebBlock is available for these platforms:

    • Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows ME
    • Windows NT, Windows 2000
    • Windows XP

    WebBlock can be password protected and does support multiple users.

    For more information about this tool, including how to purchase or use it, visit its web site: http://www.webblock.net

    Filtering

    There are many different types of filtering products. To begin with, some products are installed on your own computer at home (client-side), while others are installed on the larger computers at your Internet service provider (server-side). WebBlock is both client-based and server-based. It is available for home use.

    WebBlock can control access to web pages, access to chat rooms, and access to newsgroups (Usenet).

    Different filtering tools set up their standards of what material should or should not be filtered in different ways. With WebBlock,

    • You will be able to choose from pre-set categories what material you want to be filtered.
    • You will be able to permanently edit the company's list of material to be filtered.
    • You will be able to completely override the company's list of material to be filtered.
    • You will be able to develop your own list of material to be filtered, using the company's list as a starter.
    • You will be able to develop your own list of material to be filtered, starting from scratch.

    You may also want to review the lists of keywords or web pages, or the criteria that the tool company uses to arrive at those lists. With WebBlock, you can review the list of filtered URL's (web page addresses) and the company's criteria for filtering a web page.

    There are several technologies for determining which sites should be blocked and which should be permitted. Each of them has important strengths, but none of them is perfect. WebBlock uses the following:

    • the web page address (URL)
    • Human review of web sites
    • WebBlock classified ratings

    Some filtering tools allow you to control access in a number of different categories. WebBlock offers these categories: auction sites, chat rooms, dating sites, employment sites, gambling sites, hate sites, illegal sites, kids, news group, age 17 and older, search engines, and xrated sites.

    Monitoring

    WebBlock is designed to help you keep an eye on what your computer is being used for, even when you can't be there in person. With it installed on your system, you can review the web sites your children have visited.

    The program will operate without the child's knowledge.

    The program can be used alongside a filtering or blocking tool.

    The program can be set up to warn children when they attempt to access inappropriate material.

    April 14, 2003

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    MyWeb

    By MyWeb LLC

    Available since September 2002

    The makers of MyWeb, MyWeb LLC, described their product as: the first ever fully animated browser with a 'smart filter.' The filter blocks access to material that you don't want your kids accessing. It also has a spam-proof email account, educational tools, and a 'kid friendly' internet radio station.

    MyWeb is a product that:

    • Limits the total number of hours or the time of day that your children may be online.
    • Prevents the display of most sexually explicit material.
    • Prevents the display of most graphically violent material.
    • Prevents the display of most material advocating hate groups and their messages.
    • Prevents the display of most material advocating illegal activity, such as drug use, bomb making, or underage drinking and gambling.
    • Prevents the display of other categories of material.
    • Is an Internet browser specially designed for younger users.
    • Monitors the use of your computer or the access your children have to the Internet.

    MyWeb is available for these platforms:

    • Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows ME
    • Windows NT, Windows 2000
    • Windows XP

    MyWeb can be password protected and does support multiple users.

    For more information about this tool, including how to purchase or use it, visit its web site: http://www.myweb.com

    Time Limiting

    When MyWeb is installed on your computer to limit the time spent on the computer or on the Internet,

    • A warning will not flash on the screen when the user's time is almost up.
    • The program will limit the total amount of time spent online.
    • You can set the program to only allow Internet access during certain periods of time.

    MyWeb limits all computer use.

    Filtering

    There are many different types of filtering products. To begin with, some products are installed on your own computer at home (client-side), while others are installed on the larger computers at your Internet service provider (server-side). MyWeb is client-based.

    MyWeb can control access to web pages, the use of email, access to chat rooms, the movement of files in and out of your computer (FTP), access to instant messaging, and access to Peer to Peer networks.

    Different filtering tools set up their standards of what material should or should not be filtered in different ways. With MyWeb,

    • You will be able to choose from pre-set categories what material you want to be filtered.
    • You will be able to permanently edit the company's list of material to be filtered.
    • You will be able to completely override the company's list of material to be filtered.
    • You will be able to develop your own list of material to be filtered, using the company's list as a starter.
    • You will be able to develop your own list of material to be filtered, starting from scratch.

    You may also want to review the lists of keywords or web pages, or the criteria that the tool company uses to arrive at those lists. With MyWeb, you can review the list of keywords, the list of filtered URL's (web page addresses), and the company's criteria for filtering a web page.

    There are several technologies for determining which sites should be blocked and which should be permitted. Each of them has important strengths, but none of them is perfect. MyWeb uses the following:

    • the web page address (URL)
    • A list of keywords
    • A list of keywords combined with an analysis of the context in which they appear

    Some filtering tools allow you to control access in a number of different categories. MyWeb offers these categories: sexually explicit material, graphic violence, gambling, and hate groups.

    Browsers for Kids

    MyWeb is a kids' browser designed for all ages. By definition, kids' browsers make determinations of what content is appropriate for kids.

    You may wish to review the ways in which it makes those decisions. With MyWeb,

    • You can review the list of keywords.
    • You can review the list of blocked URL's (web page addresses).
    • You can review the company's criteria for blocking a web page.

    There are several technologies for determining which sites should be blocked and which should be permitted. Each of them has important strengths, but none of them are perfect. MyWeb uses the following:

    • the web page address (URL)
    • A list of keywords.
    • A list of keywords combined with an analysis of the context in which they appear.

    Some kids' browsers allow you to control access in a number of different categories. MyWeb offers these categories: sexually explicit material, graphic violence, gambling and hate groups.

    Monitoring

    MyWeb is designed to help you keep an eye on what your computer is being used for, even when you can't be there in person. With it installed on your system, you can review your children's email, your children's online chat, the web sites your children have visited, and your children's instant messaging sessions.

    The program will not operate without the child's knowledge.

    The program can be used alongside a filtering or blocking tool.

    The program can be set up to warn children when they attempt to access inappropriate material.

    April 7, 2003

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    Safe Access

    Version 7.62

    By Safe Access, Inc.

    Available since 1998

    Safe Access is available for these platforms:

    • Windows 2000
    • Windows XP
    • Windows Vista

    The makers of Safe Access, Safe Access, Inc., described their product as: Safe Access is an Internet filter that blocks access to offensive websites. Users can install the client on up to three computers and have up to 5 different profiles. Filtering can be customized by category. Safe Access works on any standard Internet connection. Spam and Virus free email accounts are also offered. Just install it and forget it, it just works.

    Safe Access is a product that:

    • Prevents the display of most sexually explicit material.
    • Prevents the display of most graphically violent material.
    • Prevents the display of most material advocating hate groups and their messages.
    • Prevents the display of most material advocating illegal activity, such as drug use, bomb making, or underage drinking and gambling.
    • Prevents the display of other categories of material.

    For more information about this tool, including how to purchase or use it, visit its web site: http://www.safeaccess.com

    Filtering

    There are many different types of filtering products. To begin with, some products are installed on your own computer at home (client-side), while others are installed on the larger computers at your Internet service provider (server-side). Safe Access is server-based. It is available for home use.

    Safe Access can control access to web pages, the use of email,

    Different filtering tools set up their standards of what material should or should not be filtered in different ways. With Safe Access,

    • The company alone will decide what material will be filtered.
    • You will be able to choose from pre-set categories what material you want to be filtered.
    • You will be able to completely override the company's list of material to be filtered.

    You CANNOT review the list of keywords, the list of filtered URL's (web page addresses), nor the company's criteria for filtering a web page.

    There are several technologies for determining which sites should be blocked and which should be permitted. Each of them has important strengths, but none of them is perfect. Safe Access uses the following:

    • the web page address (URL)
    • Human review of web sites
    • A list of keywords
    • A list of keywords combined with an analysis of the context in which they appear

    General Tool Information

    Updates

    Safe Access does have regular updates to the product.

    These updates do NOT carry an additional cost.

    Customization

    Safe Access requires A small client is installed on the users' computer

    Safe Access can be password protected.

    Safe Access supports multiple users.

    Tech Support

    Safe Access tech support is available via:

    • Phone
    • Email

    October 2007

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    SurfPass

    Version 3.12

    By Cogilab

    Available since 1997

    The makers of SurfPass, Cogilab, described their product as: SurfPass 3 Home Edition is the more complete, FREE parental control software.

    SurfPass is a product that:

    • Limits the total number of hours or the time of day that your children may be online.
    • Prevents the display of most sexually explicit material.
    • Prevents the display of most graphically violent material.
    • Prevents the display of most material advocating hate groups and their messages.
    • Prevents the display of most material advocating illegal activity, such as drug use, bomb making, or underage drinking and gambling.
    • Prevents the display of other categories of material.
    • Monitors the use of your computer or the access your children have to the Internet.

    SurfPass is available for these platforms:

    • Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows ME
    • Windows NT, Windows 2000
    • Windows XP

    SurfPass can be password protected. It does support multiple users.

    For more information about this tool, including how to purchase or use it, visit its web site: http://www.cogilab.com

    Time Limiting

    When SurfPass is installed on your computer to limit the time spent on the computer or on the Internet,

    • A warning will flash on the screen when the user's time is almost up.
    • The program will limit the total amount of time spent online.
    • You can set the program to only allow Internet access during certain periods of time.

    SurfPass limits all computer use.

    Filtering

    There are many different types of filtering products. To begin with, some products are installed on your own computer at home (client-side), while others are installed on the larger computers at your Internet service provider (server-side). SurfPass is client-based.

    SurfPass can control access to web pages, the use of email, access to chat rooms, the movement of files in and out of your computer (FTP), access to newsgroups (Usenet), access to instant messaging, access to Peer to Peer networks, access to any port (TCP/UDP).

    Different filtering tools set up their standards of what material should or should not be filtered in different ways. With SurfPass,

    • You will be able to choose from pre-set categories what material you want to be filtered.
    • You will be able to permanently edit the company's list of material to be filtered.
    • You will be able to completely override the company's list of material to be filtered.
    • You will be able to develop your own list of material to be filtered, using the company's list as a starter.
    • You will be able to develop your own list of material to be filtered, starting from scratch.

    You may also want to review the lists of keywords or web pages, or the criteria that the tool company uses to arrive at those lists. With SurfPass, you can review the list of filtered URL's (web page addresses), the company's criteria for filtering a web page.

    There are several technologies for determining which sites should be blocked and which should be permitted. Each of them has important strengths, but none of them is perfect. SurfPass uses the following:

    • the web page address (URL)
    • Human review of web sites
    • Squid block-list can be imported

    Some filtering tools allow you to control access in a number of different categories. SurfPass offers these categories: all kids and education.

    Blocking Outgoing Information

    When SurfPass is running on your system,

    • You can prevent your children from using email.
    • You can permit your children to send email only to a pre-approved list of recipients.
    • You can prevent your children from using chat rooms online.
    • You can prevent your children from using ICQ or other forms of instant messaging.
    • You can not edit out the transmission of specific kinds of information, like your address, telephone number, or credit card number.

    Monitoring

    SurfPass is designed to help you keep an eye on what your computer is being used for, even when you can't be there in person. With it installed on your system, you can review your children's email and the web sites your children have visited.

    The program will operate without the child's knowledge.

    The program can be used alongside a filtering or blocking tool.

    The program can be set up to warn children when they attempt to access inappropriate material.

    April 14, 2003

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    KaZipster

    By IPower Applications, Inc.

    Available since January 2008

    KaZipster is available for these platforms:

    • Macintosh OS 9, Macintosh OS X
    • Windows Vista Windows ME
    • Windows NT, Windows 2000
    • Windows XP
    • Linux
    • OS-independent

    The makers of KaZipster, IPower Applications, Inc., described their product as: IPOWER Applications KaZipster is a solution-based adaptable platform that provides a safe and secure Internet browsing environment for children. KaZipster's design and architecture permit accessibility by registered users from any computer connected to the internet from anywhere at anytime. (i.e. Home, Schools, Libraries, Corporations, etc.).

    KaZipster is a product that:

    • Monitors the use of your computer or the access your children have to the Internet.
    • Is an Internet browser specially designed for younger users.
    • <
    • Is a Pre-selected Content Service.
    • Prevents the display of most sexually explicit material.
    • Prevents the display of most graphically violent material.
    • Prevents the display of most material advocating hate groups and their messages.
    • Prevents the display of most material advocating illegal activity, such as drug use, bomb making, or underage drinking and gambling.
    • Prevents selected personal information from being transmitted from your computer.
    • Prevents the display of other categories of material.

    For more information about this tool, including how to purchase or use it, visit its web site: www.kazipster.com

    Monitoring

    KaZipster is designed to help you keep an eye on what your computer is being used for, even when you can't be there in person. With it installed on your system, you can review your children's email, your children's online chat, the web sites your children have visited, and your children's instant messaging sessions,

    KaZipster functions by analyzing the cache of the user's Web browser, analyzing the history listing of the user's Web browser, analyzing TCP/IP packets moving in and out of the computer, and analyzing the email files stored by popular email programs.

    The program can be used alongside a filtering or blocking tool.

    The program can be set up to warn children when they attempt to access inappropriate material.

    Blocking Outgoing Information

    When KaZipster is running on your system,

    • You can prevent your children from using email.
    • You can permit your children to send email only to a pre-approved list of recipients.
    • You can prevent your children from using chat rooms online.
    • You can prevent your children from using instant messaging.

    Browsers for Kids

    KaZipster is a kids' browser designed for ages Toddlers to Teens. By definition, kids' browsers make determinations of what content is appropriate for kids.

    You may wish to review the ways in which your kid's browser determines content acceptable. With KaZipster,

    • You can review the list of keywords.
    • You can review the list of blocked URL's (web page addresses).
    • You can review the company's criteria for blocking a web page.

    There are several technologies for determining which sites should be blocked and which should be permitted. Each of them has important strengths, but none of them are perfect. KaZipster uses the following:

    • Human review of web sites
    • Kids are only able to view Websites (URL's) previously pre-approved (white listed) by the Admin/Parentwhite-listed.

    KaZipster will can request for parental consent to override and will do so via:

    • Email

    The following is a list of categories that KaZipster can be configured to filter or block: Kids are only able to view Websites (URL's) previously pre-approved (white listed) by the Admin/Parentwhite-listed)

    Pre-Selected Content Service

    KaZipster makes only pre-approved content available. The content is selected by:

    • Computer with human oversight,
    • Specifically chosen by the end user

    It is NOT technically possible to leave the service's approved content area.

    Content is made available to families via normal access over the web,

    Users may control the pre-selected content provided by IPower Applications, Inc. by

    • adding their own URLs to pre-selected content
    • removing URLs from pre-selected content
    • submiting URLs for addition to pre-selected content
    • submiting requests for pre-existing content selections to be removed

    Filtering

    There are many different types of filtering products. To begin with, some products are installed on your own computer at home (client-side), while others are installed on the larger computers at your Internet service provider (server-side). KaZipster is client-based.

    KaZipster can control access to web pages, the use of email, access to chat rooms, the movement of files in and out of your computer (FTP), access to newsgroups (Usenet), access to instant messaging, access to Peer to Peer networks,

    Different filtering tools set up their standards of what material should or should not be filtered in different ways. With KaZipster,

    • You will be able to choose from pre-set categories what material you want to be filtered.
    • You will XXNOTXX be able to develop your own list of material to be filtered, using the company's list as a starter.
    You CANNOT review the list of keywords, the list of filtered URL's (web page addresses), nor the company's criteria for filtering a web page.

    There are several technologies for determining which sites should be blocked and which should be permitted. Each of them has important strengths, but none of them is perfect. KaZipster uses the following:

    • Human review of web sites

    General Tool Information

    Updates

    KaZipster does have regular updates to the product.

    These updates do NOT carry an additional cost.

    Customization

    KaZipster can be password protected.

    KaZipster does support multiple users.

    Tech Support

    KaZipster tech support is available via:

    • Phone
    • Email

    April 2008

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    CyberPatrol

    Version 7.6

    By Surf Control

    Available since 1995

    The makers of CyberPatrol, Surf Control, described their product as: A powerful PC client application that focuses on managing the most critical components of children's Internet activities: time spent online, personal information divulged and content viewed. CyberPatrol strikes the perfect balance between allowing children the "freedom to surf" and providing parents flexible options to set and manage common sense boundaries necessary to keep kids safe online.

    CyberPatrol is a product that:

    • Limits the total number of hours or the time of day that your children may be online.
    • Prevents the display of most sexually explicit material.
    • Prevents the display of most graphically violent material.
    • Prevents the display of most material advocating hate groups and their messages.
    • Prevents the display of most material advocating illegal activity, such as drug use, bomb making, or underage drinking and gambling.
    • Prevents the display of other categories of material.
    • Prevents selected personal information from being transmitted from your computer.

    CyberPatrol is available for these platforms:

    • Windows 98, Windows ME
    • Windows NT, Windows 2000
    • Windows XP, Windows Vista

    CyberPatrol can be password protected. It does support multiple users.

    For more information about this tool, including how to purchase or use it, visit its web site: http://www.cyberpatrol.com

    Time Limiting

    When CyberPatrol is installed on your computer to limit the time spent on the computer or on the Internet,

    • A warning will flash on the screen when the user's time is almost up.
    • The program will limit the total amount of time spent online.
    • You can set the program to only allow Internet access during certain periods of time.

    CyberPatrol limits access to certain software products (e.g. Web browsers, email programs), limits Internet use of all kinds, and limits all computer use.

    Filtering

    There are many different types of filtering products. To begin with, some products are installed on your own computer at home (client-side), while others are installed on the larger computers at your Internet service provider (server-side). CyberPatrol is client-based.

    CyberPatrol can control access to web pages, access to chat rooms, and access to newsgroups (Usenet).

    Different filtering tools set up their standards of what material should or should not be filtered in different ways. With CyberPatrol,

    • You will be able to choose from pre-set categories what material you want to be filtered.
    • You will not be able to permanently edit the company's list of material to be filtered.
    • You will be able to completely override the company's list of material to be filtered.
    • You will not be able to develop your own list of material to be filtered, using the company's list as a starter.
    • You will not be able to develop your own list of material to be filtered, starting from scratch.

    You may also want to review the lists of keywords or web pages, or the criteria that the tool company uses to arrive at those lists. With CyberPatrol, you can review the company's criteria for filtering a web page.

    There are several technologies for determining which sites should be blocked and which should be permitted. Each of them has important strengths, but none of them is perfect. CyberPatrol uses the following:

    • the web page address (URL)
    • Human review of web sites
    • A list of keywords combined with an analysis of the context in which they appear
    • Web page analysis

    Some filtering tools allow you to control access in a number of different categories. CyberPatrol offers these categories: adult/sexually explicit, criminal skills, drugs, alcohol and tobacco, gambling, hacking, hate speech, violence, weapons, chat, glamour/intimate apparel, remote proxies, multiple category servers and sex education.

    Blocking Outgoing Information

    When CyberPatrol is running on your system,

    • You can prevent your children from using email.
    • You can not permit your children to send email only to a pre-approved list of recipients.
    • You can prevent your children from using chat rooms online.
    • You can prevent your children from using ICQ or other forms of instant messaging.
    • You can edit out the transmission of specific kinds of information, like your address, telephone number, or credit card number.

    September 2007

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