Previously, the only available options to parents were to either disallow use of the Internet or to install content filtering software. Option one, disallowing use of the Internet, is certainly an extreme, but one that many parents feel necessary to take because they don't feel that they understand computer/Internet technology well enough to install and maintain additional software on their computer. Option two, content filtering software, has become popular in the last couple of years, but it has many drawbacks. First, it requires that the parent acquire and install the software. Second, it requires that the parent keep the block list updated (often with paid subscriptions). Third, technically adept children often figure out how to disable the software.

KidSafe requires no software installation. Instead, you simply sign up for the service, make a quick change to your web browser's configuration and it's done. It requires no regular updates since we do all of the work. The software resides on our computers, beyond the reach of kids and other young computer geniuses. We keep all block lists updated -- in fact, the list is updated daily. Our list of sites to block comes from the same subscription service used by K-12 schools all across the nation.

KidSafe is free! It does require that you be a member of a Community Telephone online service. If you have any questions, our helpdesk is always ready to help.

FILTERING PHILOSOPHY
Our philosophy is based on the following criteria in identifying objectionable Internet material. The general categories of "blockable" Web sites are listed below.

• Nudity - The absence of clothing or exposing any and all parts of the human genitalia. Exceptions: "Classical" nudity (Michelangelo), swimsuit models.


• Adult Content - Any material that has been publicly labeled as being strictly for adults.


• Sex - Description or depiction of sexual acts and any erotic material.


• Violence - Graphic depiction of violent acts including murder, rape, torture and/or serious injury.


• Drug Use - Usage or encouraging usage of any recreational drugs, including tobacco and alcohol advertising. Exceptions: material with valid educational use (e.g. drug abuse statistics).


• Gambling - Online gambling services.


• Bad Language - Crude or vulgar language or gestures.


• Discrimination - Denigration of race, religion, gender, nationality and/or sexual orientation.


• Crime - Encouragement of, tools for, or advice on carrying out universally criminal acts. This includes lock-picking, bomb-making and hacking information.


• Tastelessness - Excretory functions, tasteless humor, graphic medical photos outside of medical context and some extreme forms of body modification (cutting, branding, genital piercing).


• Chat Sites - On-line chatting (might appear under the High Risk category as well).


• High Risk - Sites with lack of editorial control which then may fall into one of the other blockable categories. This includes, but is not limited to, Web-based e-mail services and free home page services.