How Accessible to Children is Unsuitable Material?

Children can view inappropriate content on computers which are not set up to block it. Exposure to inappropriate content can be reduced however, when Internet content filters are used.

Virtually anybody can make inappropriate content available online, as the Internet is generally an unregulated publishing media. In certain situations, however, some countries (such as Australia) can order this content to be removed.

Education systems and individual schools can use filtering products to help protect students. School based products can include security and time management as well as filtering capabilities.

Families can also use filtering products to reduce the accessibility to inappropriate materials for children. Internet content filters for the home are available through computer shops, as downloads off the Internet as through Internet Service Providers.

As children have Internet access away from protected environments (such as the school or home) they may still be exposed to inappropriate content.

Education strategies need to be used so that children are empowered to make the correct decisions if this happens.