Parents to get automatic prompt for online porn filters

Despite rejecting an automatic online porn block last week, the Government will be making sure internet service providers prompt parents to install filters to protect their children.

Writing in the Daily Mail, David Cameron confirmed that with this new system, when people switch on their new computer, they will be asked if there are children in the household.

Those who answer ‘yes’ will automatically be guided through the process of installing anti-porn filters.

Imposed

According to the Daily Mail, ministers have imposed a timetable on internet service providers to produce plans on ensuring all parents are given the option of installing filters.

The Government released its response to a consultation on online safety last week, and said an automatic porn block could mean teenagers losing access to sites about sexual health and identity.

David Cameron said: “The point is we need a more sophisticated system than this – one that allows parents to tailor exactly what their children can see”.

Control

He claimed that this system gives “much more control for parents” than an automatic block.

Mr Cameron also said “providers need to work to verify the age of the person setting the controls – meaning that children can’t set up the filters themselves”.

In the consultation, 35 per cent of parents favoured default porn filters for all internet service providers.

Public

Meanwhile, pornography will be blocked from wi-fi in public places, under a deal being struck between the Government and industry.

This means people who go online using wi-fi hotspots in cafes, shops and railway stations will no longer be able to access adult material.

The Department for Education said: “UK Council for Child Internet safety is working with all the major public wi-fi providers towards a commitment in early 2013 to filter adult content by default.”

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