Protecting Your Family At The Time of Purchase

Given the many options available, purchasing mobile phones for yourself and your family can be a daunting endeavor.  The following script is designed to make the process a bit easier by providing examples of questions to ask regarding the wireless provider’s “parental controls” and assist you in your evaluation of the product.

1.      Internet Accessibility

·        Can this device be connected to the Internet?

·        Can this connection be turned on and off, and if so, how?

·        What is the additional cost of Internet access?

·        How can I block connections to social networking websites such as MySpace, Facebook, Xanga, etc.?

2.      Internet Filtering/Monitoring

·        Are there appropriate parental controls to filter, block and/or monitor Internet access?  If so, how can they be installed?

·        How can I prevent these controls from being circumvented?

3.      Forms of Communication

·        Can this device send and receive e-mails, text messages and instant messages?

·        Can the device produce, receive and distribute pictures or video footage?  Can this capability be turned on and off, and if so, how?

4.      Usage Controls

·        How can I limit the times of day and length of time the device can be used?

·        How can I limit the contact list for both incoming and outgoing calls?

5.      Sexually Explicit Content

·        Can the device be used to obtain sexually explicit content through a connection to the Internet, a memory stick, a connection to other wireless devices, e-mails or in any other manner?  How can I disengage/monitor this capability?

6.      Final Question

·        Will you help me set up these parental controls and understand how to keep them effective in the future?