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.

[jude24]

generally, away messages work for me.

I leave it up 24/7. It's pretty convenient that way...

[Stand Watch Listen]

I believe one can click on IM and in the to: block ...type in     $IM_off     then click available box. I believe this shuts off all incoming IMs for the internet session. Will have to do this every time one logs on.

You can also type in     $IM_on     to turn them back on. This could be helpful if you are receiving the garbage IMs from XXX or other intrusive internet sites.

[Stand Watch Listen]

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

Please refer to Reply #22 above

[BlackbirdSST]

Easy, delete it! Blackbird.

[jae471]

An away message that says "I'm busy" might to the trick.

[Chad Fairbanks]

Hmmm... I wonder if shutting IM down would do the trick? ;0)

[John Galt's cousin]

I am disappointed that you did not get more responsive answers to your question. I just checked back to this thread because I also want to block access to aol instant messenger. Even good kids sometimes give in to temptation

The suggestion to block access to a certain port via Zonealarm looks promising, and I am going to check that option.

Have you given any thought to enabling the 'content advisor' on the internet explorer tools menu? I am going to see if I can block access to aol.com that way. (I would do it now, except we forgot the parental control password. I have to uninstall and re-install IE to re-set the password.)

[this_ol_patriot]

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

LOL...Alright son, out to the woodshed you go and I'm going to open up a can of poledit on you boy.

As for the IM, uninstall it, nobody needs to be chatting to "friends" they can't ever see.
To talk to local and school friends use the phone or have them over the house.