How to control child's access to AOL Instant Messenger

[rudy45]

What techniques have parents used to control access to Internet? I have looked at "I am Big Brother." However, it is more of a monitoring package, rather than one that blocks access. What I am interested in is a package that would allow access to (e.g. Instant Messenger) applications only when we allow it (sort of like a timelock). Any suggestions would be welcome. Thanks.

[Chad Fairbanks]

I use a system known as "Trust"... seems to work, so far... :0)

[rudy45]

Please give me more details. Web site etc. Thanks.

[TopHat1948]

AOL has a system built in for you to control im's. Go to preferences and it allows you to place all kind of restrictions on you childrens AOL, including IM's. Also, they will help you if you need specific instructions.

[admiralsn]

bump for a later read

[Chad Fairbanks]

It's not software, it's just trusting the child... ;0)

[texlok]

Lock it inside of a safe, in a locked room.

Or put the computer in a very public place.

[GSWarrior]

Why are you even using AOL?

[Pistias]

What I am interested in is a package that would allow access to (e.g. Instant Messenger) applications only when we allow it (sort of like a timelock).

For $49.95 (plus s&h) I would be happy to send you a detailed description of my software/hardware add-on package. Here's a taste of what you'll receive:

Step 1: Move computer into a room not currently occupied by child.

Step 2: Apply lock fixture to door of said room (lock and bracket included for additional $29.95).

Step 3: Allow child access at your discretion.

[Kozak]

You can use software like Cyber Patrol ( as long as you aren't using windows XP ). What you can do is deny access to the internet for specific time periods, or set up time restrictions on specific programs as well. It also allows you to select "levels" of blocking for sites ( ie Sex: suggestive, explicit, graphic etc. It can be also filter violence, drugs, multiple other topics) Worked pretty well although it was somewhat pricey, especially if you had 2 pc's like I do at home.

[opticoax]

It depends on what OS you are running. Windows 98 allows for restricting program use using "poledit" to make policies

Windows 2000 allows IP and port filtering from the desktop. SecurityFocus has a how-to on this.

Or you can download zonealarm and deny access out on port 5190 AIM uses or deny the program access to the internet. Any of these will work, but there is a slight learning curve.

[MudPuppy]

We don't allow any type of IM program on our computer - especially aol.
Our 12 & 13 yr old are observed every time they're on the internet.
They also aren't allowed unlimited telephone usage and we've blocked
most of our cable channels out.
The internet is not a "right", it's a priveledge.
Good Luck.

[Pistias]

I think the pole edit would fix that kid right up...one or two good whacks ought to do it...

[pubmom]

That's the way we do things here as well.

[KneelBeforeZod]

AOL and AOL Instant messenger aren't the same thing.

[afraidfortherepublic]

I wish I knew how to prevent people from Instant Messaging me when I'm working and don't want to be bothered.

[JediGirl]

You can use software like Cyber Patrol ( as long as you aren't using windows XP )

I remember CyberPatrol. I got past it when I was 11. It kept blocking me from visting sites like the WorldKids Network and newssites.

[Quilla]

Highly recommend your application - have used it for years! It works with curfews, television and video games as well.