VampirZ

There are a number of problems that have been highlighted in this blog regarding the implementation and use of an ISP filtering program. Apart from the fact that this is yet another form of censorship that the greater population does not want, there are many technical hurdles and problems that will be generated by use of such technology.

A filter such as this has already been shown to reduce available bandwith, limiting an already slow medium when compared with other nations such as china and america. We at least need for broadband technology to further develop and for speeds to increase for this filter not to create a greater impact on current speeds.

While I can understand the wish to limit the availability of inappropriate content being able to be accessed by children, this is and should remain the domain of the parent(s). We have a ratings system in place for media content (just don't get me started on the gaming ratings system), and while this cannot be applied to the internet, this is where programs such as Net Nanny come into their own, and while still a falable program, they provide the first level of defence for our children.

The government should devote the time and money to be spent on an ISP filter technology into research and development of a home user program that can filter and prevent children gaining access to inappropriate content. I speak from the view of a parent who works with computers all day and can see the various pitfalls that will doom the current outlook. I have software on my PC's that has this ability and am also able to lock down the program so that my children cannot disable/change the settings. Ok, it doesn't always get it right, but that combined with me keeping an eye on my child's use of the computer (it is in the loungeroom) severely limits this content from being provided to them.