Parental Controls Functioning in Google Chrome

  Parental Controls Functioning in 

Google Chrome

We are in a society where the Internet is already a way of life and the smallest of the house begin to use it faster and faster. Therefore, it is normal for us to worry and find it necessary to handle Parental Control in Google. Any word that we write in the search engine can give us a lot of connotations and that for our children at a certain age becomes very dangerous because the occurrences are very bad and the network is open, so to speak, without internal law to any type of content. For all this, it is very normal for parents and adults to be alarmed and want to use extra measures apart from supervision that give us peace of mind and security when leaving our children in front of the computer.

We already know that there are many browsers and of course each one offers you a provision for Google Parental Control requiring a lot of time and effort to configure, a solution is to use only one browser and delete the others (something unorthodox since some web pages work better in some than in others) and another is to use a specific program such as Qustodio, which guarantees you to control all the use that your children make of the Internet on any device and with any browser program. It is one of the best options because for example if you have a Mac the parental control varies and its handling from other terminals is a mess. Thus, the most used browser par excellence and in which more devices can be installed is Google Chrome.

Steps to follow

·         Below you can find the steps to follow to use Google Parental Control and thus protect the content that your child watches when he is surfing the net:

·         Open Google Chrome and click on the three dots that appear in the upper right corner and click on "Settings".

·         Here, the administration screen of your Google Chrome will open, in which you have to go down to "Other users" and click on "Add Person" to create a user that will serve to supervise your child.

·         Select the first check and thus create a shortcut on the desktop for this user and also the second check to control the sites that this person visits from our account. Finally, give this user a name and an icon.

·         Click on "Add" and a new window will appear indicating that the user is now a supervised user and that you can manage the sites that can be visited on the link page (that is, the direct link on the desktop). So, confirm the action by clicking on "Got it".

·         You already have your supervised user created. Now, you must go to the administration panel of supervised users to manage the sites to which it has access.

·         Click on their name to enter their specific area and within it you can activate or deactivate notifications for that user, manage the permissions for each site and block or unblock the Safe Search filter.

·         If you look on the desktop, you will see the shortcut created for the supervised user. Double click on it and you will go directly to the Internet.

·         Within your Google Chrome window, you will see that you can navigate as anyone else would. Enter, for example, on YouTube, Facebook, Google and do a search ... everything works normal.

·         Well, now go back to your Chrome window, see how a list of all the sites that the supervised user has visited appears, that is, the history.

·         If there is one that you do not want your child to visit, you just have to select it and click on "Block". In this way, the user will not be able to access that website from their profile.

·         If the supervised user wants to have access to that website, they must "Request permission" and this request will appear in your administration panel.

·         Now you can approve or deny it.

·         There is the possibility that the supervised user, from his Google Chrome window, click on his name, select yours and access your profile and to manipulate the permissions. To avoid that, what you should do is that from our Chrome window when you finish performing any action click on "Exit and Block", so that in this way every time you want to access you must enter a password and no one who does not know it can do it.

 

 

Parental Control To Protect Children Among Cyber Predators

 Parental Control To Protect Children Among Cyber Predators

 

The number of threats that threaten our children on the Internet continues to multiply. Discover everything you need to know to protect them from them.

 

My job is to help families develop positive digital habits, manage screen time, and regain control of their everyday interactions with technology. Achieving digital balance is essential when it comes to protecting their mental health, promoting healthy relationships and ensuring the correct development of the little ones.

I am also a mother, so I know from experience how difficult it is to try to find a healthy balance when it comes to using technology at home, and I understand parents' concerns about the dangers of the Internet. During the application of social distancing measures and quarantine, an increase in cybercrimes and the dissemination and demand for inappropriate content, including images related to pedophilia, has been detected. The distribution of these types of files has also increased, as well as the number of cases of cyber deception for sexual or criminal purposes. While all of these cyber threats may seem remote or too horrible to think about at times, the truth is that none of us are safe, and as parents we have a responsibility to protect the safety of our families.  

This is not a mere perception. The statistics do not lie. Between March and April 2020, the BBC found that the number of complaints related to the distribution of pornography on the network had doubled in the UK to more than 4 million per month. A figure that adds to the statistics of a country in which 300,000 individuals are considered a threat to children and in which this April there were about 8.8 million attempts to access pornography web pages children that had previously been blocked by the Internet Watch Foundation.  

According to a recent report by the 5Rights Foundation in response to a British government query on the threats minors have been exposed to online during the pandemic, the UK is not the only country facing this problem: 

• The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) in the United States received 4.2 million complaints related to cases of alleged child sexual exploitation in April , an increase of almost 3 million compared to April of the previous year.
• InHope , a network of 46 national centres dedicated to combating the sexual exploitation of children, claims that these types of cases have increased by 30% worldwide during the pandemic.

With children now spending more time indoors and connected to the Internet, they are easy prey for predators who try to trick them for sexual or criminal purposes. Now that they no longer have the school's safety net, an environment in which it is easier for them to share their concerns with their teachers and friends, they may find it more difficult to talk openly about negative experiences they have had on the Internet. which tend to weaken their confidence and self-esteem. This brief study analyzes the psychological consequences suffered by children who have been victims of this type of predator. 

The number of cases of sexual cyberbullying and bullying is increasing. The Australian eSafety commissioner reports that cyberbullying cases increased by 50% during the first three weeks of the quarantine, and a study on digital toxicity levels carried out by L1ght, an emerging company dedicated to artificial intelligence, has detected that hate speech and the use of offensive language skyrocketed 70% among children and adolescents in March this year.  

Meanwhile, technology companies and security forces in different countries are facing serious difficulties in keeping up with these changes. The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) says that the number of files identified as child pornography and deleted fell by up to 89% over a four-week period during the start of the quarantine, not because the content was not harmful, but due to the lack of personnel of these bodies.

How can you help protect the safety of your children on the Internet?

1. Talk to them about the real risks of going online , including cyber predators, harmful content, and theft of personal data. Many young people may believe that they are completely safe from these threats, but the reality is that we are all vulnerable on the Internet. 

2. Pay attention to the signs that indicate that your child may be the victim of some kind of exploitation through the Internet . The Children's Society advises parents to be vigilant for any of the following red flags:

• Talk about new friends or adults you have met on the Internet
• Talk about gifts or money you have received online
• Shows an introverted and reserved demeanor
• You have a new phone or more than one phone
• Receive a large number of calls or messages
• You are worried about the idea of ​​not being able to use the phone

3. Understand the apps and games your child uses. Remember that many games often have messaging functions or chat rooms, where extra strangers can contact your children. Set the appropriate privacy settings and keep the location settings off.

4. Use parental control applications like Qustodio to monitor your Internet activity . Use the information they provide about the kinds of videos they watch or the games they play to encourage communication in the family and help them develop healthy habits.  

5. Protect your family from cyber fraud by reviewing the privacy settings of your applications and using unique and secure passwords. Don't trust unwanted email messages and update the antivirus software on your devices. And trust your instincts. If something gives you a bad feeling, even if it seems completely "normal," it most likely isn't.

 

Best Free Parental Control Software In 2021

 Best Free Parental Control Software In 2021

Protect your kids online with free parental control software

With free parental control software, you can have peace of mind knowing that your children are safe from any inappropriate or adult content. These applications can alleviate many of the worries that come with allowing your children to use the Internet when you cannot observe what they are doing, and it also costs you no expense.

The best free parental control software is without a doubt Qustodio , which offers a complete set of tools to keep your children safe online, including content filters and time limits. However, it is not the only option, so we have selected four other of the best alternative tools so that you can make the best decision for you and your children.

 

In an ideal world, the Internet would be a safe place for children. But, unfortunately, there is nothing further from the truth. And you, as an adult, are normal that you are busy and do not always have time to take a look while your children connect to a network. This is precisely the area where different free parental control software can help: either by blocking access to specific sites where inappropriate content may be included, or by allowing access only to sites that you consider appropriate, these tools help you to protect your children.

The best free parental control software will take care of kids when you can't, whether it's because they have to do research for a school assignment, chat with friends, or simply have fun with all the good things the Internet has to offer. . No matter how old your children are, or if you are using a mobile phone, laptop, Windows or macOS ... On our list, you will surely find the perfect free parental control software to help you out.

The best free parental control software:

The premium parental control tools offered by Qustodio are simply the best. YouTube monitoring, the ability to view time spent on social media, time limit for video games, and call tracking are just some of the options available. These tools aren't free, but they do provide an extra layer of protection to keep your kids safe.

1. Qustodio

A complete set of parental control tools to keep your children safe online

·       Excellent content filter

·       Allows parents to set time limits

·       Multi-platform

·       Some features require a paid subscription

Most parental control software services are aimed at Windows users, but Qustodio (think: 'custodian') is also available for Mac, Android, iOS, Kindle, and Nook.

The free version is one of the most complete parental control applications out there, allowing you to set rules and schedules, as well as block pornography and other inappropriate content. If you opt for the paid version, you will also get the option to monitor SMS, functions related to social networks and specific controls for each application.

Its great feature set and support for a wide range of platforms make Qustodio the best “free” parental control software, but there are other programs available, and also free, some of which may be better suited to your personal needs as father or mother. Read on for the rest of our top picks.

2. OpenDNS FamilyShield

Block domains throughout your home network at the router level

Operating System: Windows

·       Works at the router level

·       Default block lists

·       Can improve network speed

·       Installation can be difficult

FamilyShield is a free OpenDNS service. Its parental control tools automatically block the domains that OpenDNS has marked based on the keywords "sex" or "pornography", among others.

One of the great advantages of this service is that, although FamilyShield can run on both desktops and laptops, you can also install it directly on the router and filter all the content that passes through the network; it is only a matter of changing the DNS server numbers through the control panel.

This includes the advantage of improving DNS lookup speed at some ISPs. By passing all the content through the filters at the router level, you will be able to control all the devices connected to that network. And for more features, there is also a premium service available.

3. Kid Logger

Detailed activity log, including applications used and keyboard tracking

Operating System: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, BlackBerry

·       Multi-platform

·       The free version does not offer the function of recording audio

·       Only covers a single device

There is nothing that beats Kid Logger. This free parental control software not only tracks what your kids write, as well as what websites they have visited, but it also provides a record of the programs they use and the screenshots they take.

If you're concerned about who your kids might be talking to when they're online, there's even the option to record audio, which is voice activated. If your children are a little older and more responsible, then you can choose which supervision options to carry out and which not, to leave a margin of privacy.

This free software only allows it to run on a single device and also lacks some of the more effective features that we do get in the premium version (including silent monitoring of WhatsApp conversations and the ability to listen in on Skype calls), but it still does. being a complete tool for the safety of children.

4. Spyrix Free Keylogger

Find out what your children write to see if they are getting into trouble

Operating System: Windows

·       Remote control

·       Monitors clipboard and printer

·       Does not include content blocking

·       Windows only

Keyboard logging services have a bad online reputation, as they are often used by criminals with the intention of stealing passwords and accessing bank details, but they can also be used to do good, as in the case of Spyrix, which allows you to see what your children have been typing on the Internet.

Although it is considered a parental control software, the free version of Spyrix is ​​actually a monitoring program; It doesn't stop kids from breaking the rules, but it allows you to log in later and see exactly what they've done. If you also want to block content, you will have to opt for a premium subscription.

The fact that it does not include an option to filter content could mean that Spyrix is ​​not the best software for younger children's computers, but it can be more than useful for older children if you have suspicions of cyberbullying or other serious concerns.

5. Kaspersky Safe Kids

One parental control software for all devices

Operating System: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS

·       Available for different platforms

·       Screen time and app tracking

·       Extra and exclusive tools for mobile devices

·       It may slow down Windows on some PCs

Kaspersky Safe Kids is parental control software that covers all types of devices, whether portable or not, and offers both free and paid versions.

The free version includes a "blacklist", which prevents your children from accessing inappropriate content while they are online, as well as offering application controls that allow you to manage the use of the application in terms of usage time, age restrictions and categories (for example, if you don't want your children to play at night when they have to go to school the next day). It also includes a tool related to screen time management so you can control the general use of the device.

The paid version, on the other hand, offers more specific functions for portable devices, including a battery tracker so you can check if your child's mobile is about to turn off, leaving him with no way to communicate with you. You can also access their location through GPS tracking, manage the use of social networks and receive alerts in real time if they visit websites that they shouldn't or are no longer in a predefined "safe" space.

However, we found that it takes longer than usual to log into a Windows account when Kaspersky Safe Kids is running on a Windows 10 PC, so this is worth keeping in mind if your children's computer already it goes a little slow.

 

The Best Parental Control Tools

 The Best Parental Control Tools

All the parental control filters that we recommend are monitoring tools that allow you to set limits and monitor your child's online activity. There are other products designed for covert observation of your kids' search habits, texting, etc. In a word: espionage. This spyware allows you to see what is happening without your children knowing.

We recommend having an open line of communication with your child to help foster good online habits. If you use spyware to secretly track your child's online activities, you are missing the opportunity to provide them with real tools that will help them stay safe online for a lifetime.

Let's take a look at some of the best parental control programs on the market.

Bark

Bark is the simplest parental control app we tested, but it offers powerful protection. It uses an impressive algorithm that looks for warning signs in social media posts, emails, text messages, and photos.

That level of oversight sounds invasive, but Bark only alerts you to posts or photos that he notes as potentially dangerous. This provides the opportunity to stay on top of what is happening with your child without having them turn over their phone for inspection. Because you receive specialized alerts for specific warning signs, you can address each issue with your child.

Bark is one of the most expensive parental control apps we've seen. But it offers a 7-day free trial period, and you can use the app on an unlimited number of devices.

Qustodio

Qustodio is one of the most comprehensive parental control software , and we like that you can choose between a free or paid basic version to access additional features. You can try all the premium features for a three day period.

One of our favourite Qustodio features is the panic button. Children can access the panic button through the Qustodio app on their smartphone. When they push the button, you get an instant panic alert, and thanks to location tracking, you can determine exactly where your child is when they ask for help.

Qustodio has advanced Facebook monitoring and offers full visibility into your child's messages, posts, and photos. And if your child has an Android device, you can track calls and text messages and block any contacts that you consider inappropriate.

If you have multiple children that you want to keep track of, Qustodio offers plans that cover between five and 15 devices.

Net Nanny

Net Nanny offers many features and has a solid reputation, but setup is difficult and costs a bit more than some other available options. You can buy Net Nanny for Windows if you want to protect only one desktop device, but with the Family Protection Pass you can protect between five and 20 devices, including tablets and smartphones.

Once Net Nanny is installed, it is very easy to block access to specific websites and applications, and the remote time-out feature was a great success.

But it's also easy to get around Net Nanny's web filter, so we recommend it for younger kids who may be less knowledgeable in online settings.

Kaspersky Safe Kids

Kaspersky offers a lot for a low price. For around 15 euros you can protect up to 500 devices with all the premium features of Kaspersky. We imagine that most people don't need as much protection, but we like that Kaspersky makes it easy for families of any size to afford parental control protection.

One of the most innovative features of Kaspersky is low battery alerts. When your child's phone needs a charge, get a notification. This means there are no more "my phone died" excuses when you ask why your child ignored your call or text.

We like that there is a free version available, but it is really basic: if you want more than a content filter and screen time management, you will need to upgrade to the premium plan.

Boomerang

Boomerang offers an impressive number of parental control features, but its use is limited for iOS devices. But if you have an Android device, you can manage apps, filter content, configure geofences, monitor text messages, control tabs on YouTube views, and more.

One thing we like about Boomerang is its uninstall protection. If your child tries to remove the software on Android or iOS, you will be notified.

Overall, Boomerang is an affordable option that offers comprehensive protection for Android devices.

 

Family Link

This free parental control tool has been designed mainly for mobile phones and allows you to set time limits for device use. It is also possible to create accounts with different levels of access and security.

Norton Family premier

Symantec's Norton Family Premier is easy to download and install. There is no specific limit on the number of devices. It has a data-rich dashboard that provides detailed information about your child's web usage. It is compatible with Android and iOS.

McAfee Safe Family

McAfee Safe Family is parental control software with a common application for parents and children. It works on an unlimited number of devices and comes with good time management features to restrict your child's internet usage hours. It also has geolocation.

MMGuardian

MMGuardian is one of the best parental control apps with good social monitoring as well as calls and SMS. The app supports comprehensive reports on app usage, web browsing, and more. One-click shutdown button is also available. You can add words and the system will notify you when your child is using them.

Mspy

MSpy is one of the veterans in the market. With an emphasis on monitoring the different social applications. The standout feature is the photo monitoring, which is quite unique. No time management. Easy installation process.

What other types of parental controls are there?

There are other types of parental controls that we are going to discuss.

Router and DNS servers

Through the router we can manage restrictions on Internet browsing when different people connect with different devices. In this way, it is possible to filter the content accessed by minors, establish connection time limits and implement filters to prevent access to certain web pages.

Most parental control tools have the option of setting filters on the router.

There is also the possibility of parental control through the DNS server with which all devices and operating systems that we have at home can be controlled.

Antivirus

Many antivirus programs also incorporate parental control with which you can set browsing time limits, block certain websites, monitor chat conversations or control your child's online and social media activity.

Browsers

Browsers provide different ways to filter the websites that you don't want your children to access. The parental control Firefox , Safari, Chrome and Internet Explorer allow you to select sites and domains that you want to block. To do this, you must set the filters you want by accessing Settings and selecting the types of websites you want to block.

There are tools that give access to pages or content suitable for the little ones in the house. Among these tools we highlight:

Tweens Browser

Parents should know that this browser is a safe and ad-free window on the web for tweens. The software automatically filters out racist, pornographic, and overtly violent content, as well as chat. In addition, the sites are reviewed by a human team of parents and educators. Overall, the sites are fine for kids to eat, and they do an especially good job of appealing to the more sophisticated tastes of older tweens.

While child-oriented browsers offer parents peace of mind, they will not completely restrict children from accessing the Internet, whether by scrolling through your computer's filter or at someone else's home.

Kido'z

KIDOZ is the fastest growing content discovery and recommendation platform for kids, reaching more than 100 million children worldwide. It has become the leader of the global network, helping millions of children find content they love while allowing hundreds of brands and developers to monetize and distribute content to children around the world.

Zoodles

Parents should know that Zoodies allows younger children to sample age-appropriate web content, including games and videos. The app selects content for kids based on age, skill level, and special needs. Users can only access pre-approved sites and cannot browse parts of those sites that have not been added to the content rotation.

A premium version of the app gives parents access to special features, including the ability to monitor children's activities, block ads, and personalize content. Parents can try the premium version for free for 14 days.

Search engines

There are also search engines that offer safe results for minors, such as:

Kiddle

The sites that appear in Kiddle's search results are eligible for families as they filter sites with explicit or misleading content. It offers child-oriented results: safe sites and pages written specifically for children, safe and reliable pages that are not written specifically for children, but have content written in a simple way, easy for children to understand.

Children's search engine

The best search engine for children with 100% safe content. Ideal for teachers, educators and parents. The Children's Search Engine is designed and programmed using Google technology with very powerful filtering algorithms that discriminate content not suitable for minors in search results.

Bunis

Bunis is another safe search engine for children. It is a Google search engine that filters content that is not suitable for minors.

As you can see, you have many parental control tools. But remember, it is best to use them responsibly and find a balance between protecting your children without having to behave excessively authoritative.