Spftware to keep kids safe?

[Archman]

Hi,

We are looking for something that would allow us to look out for our daughters. We are putting the family computer in the daughters' room, and allow them to use the computer there, as we am getting a new computer. They primarily use MSN messenger, so I would like something that would allow me to pull up any of their conversations if either the wife or I feel that something is up.

I was thinking to make their accounts on Windows guest accounts, but still have the option to pull up messenger conversations should anything arise. I can not recall if someone can choose to not save the chat history in messenger if they are a guest on windows?

Is there a program that allows for surveillance across the network? One daughter is 10, and one is 5. We do not plan to snoop, but from time to time would just like to check on them... kids can be so secretive sometimes, and with the issues of creeps on the internet, we just want to make sure that things are alright

Thanks

 

[MustISO]

The first step is to NOT put the computer in her room where you can't monitor it. Putting it in an open area is always a good idea. There was a post on here recently about some parental software. Do a search.

 

[43st]

Yeah, the best software is you. Put the computer in a public area and make sure you explain the world to them before they "discover" the world. I'd probably use something like DD-WRT on a Linksys router with access restrictions and access time limits, as I'd be more concerned with the amount of time spent online.

 

[andrewbabcock]

I hate the monitoring stuff because i feel like i wouldn't be able to speak freely with my friends if i was monitored that way. That being said, I understand that kids need to be safe online but at some point it goes too far. If you are going to monitor convos, do it for their safety not to get them in trouble (mention of prohibited activities, etc.). As far as I'm concerned, monitoring should never lead to punishment but only as a safety mechanism.

Like they said above, the best software is you. Not only because if you pull up convos you might find something you don't like that would lead to punishment but also because software would not do as well as you would with the computer in an open area. The internet should be a place for communication, education, and overall enjoyment not punishments from parents.

As long as you vow not to snoop, i see no problem with software but an open area would be better...

 

[Archman]

I know that we are the best thing. It is still something to discuss with the wife. I'd rather keep it in a common area, and limit the time spent online for them.

I'd rather not let the computer go their room. It'll be a discussion for sure.

Thanks for the input

 

[mechBgon]

Make their accounts Limited accounts, not Guest accounts. And IMHO, 5-year-old kids shouldn't be on the Internet unsupervised.

 

[skyking]

Originally posted by: mechBgon
Make their accounts Limited accounts, not Guest accounts. And IMHO, 5-year-old kids shouldn't be on the Internet unsupervised.

agreed. if you are adventuresome, set up a proxy box in addition to the common sense suggestions above.

 

[VIAN]

and get some PC-cillin Internet Security so you can block out websites that fit certain criteria such as:

phishing
spyware
adware
adult
sex
personals/dating
chat/instant messaging - if you wanted to
software downloads


Sounds like it has some potential, especially the first 5 options.

 

[gregor7777]

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications...em-details.asp?EdpNo=2577467&CatId=990

I just loaded this up on Tiger yesterday...supposed to be pretty good.