Internet Filtering

INTERNET FILTERING

The above picture is a perfect representation for what it means to have your access to the internet censored.

Internet Filtering

                                         

The internet has become a large part of our lives and these days living without it just seems impossible. On the world wide web, you can find Information to everything you can imagine. However, having access to everything also comes with it, it’s advantages and disadvantages.

This is incorporated in the term known as … Internet Filtering …  So what is internet filtering. Well let me tell you that it is a software tool that allows parents and system administrators to control the list of permitted and blocked websites and programs.  Basically, it is the control or suppression of what can be accessed, published, or viewed on the Internet.

Initially, Internet filters were used at homes and at public schools and libraries. It was used as a safety precaution to prevent children from accessing, illegal web sites such as pornography. As time progressed, Internet filters became incorporated into businesses to control Internet use in the workplace. As many workers would often log onto social media sites when they suppose to be working. Internet filtering is also used in many countries to prevent their citizens from accessing certain websites, either for political or religious purposes.  

These are the reasons for internet filtering, but is it the right things to do? Well this question is a heated debate as there are arguments for and against the use of internet filtering.

Arguments for internet filtering?

It can help preserve national security.

It can help protect people from content that can be deemed inappropriate e.g child pornography sites.

It can reduce online scams.

It can promote copyright protection particularly content like music, movies etc.

It can guide against spamming which is a huge challenge in the computing world.

It can help address hate crimes and online bullying.

Arguments against internet filtering?

It limits the freedom of speech.

It violates ones basic human rights.

It limits people’s potential to access information that can facilitate development in their lives.

It gives governments too much power and control over what can be accessed and what can not.

It limits a society’s ability to advance in its understanding of the world.

The above explains what in general are viewed as the arguments for and against internet filtering.

My general view point is that Internet Filtering, is a word that frightens many people, but if applied in a thoughtful, measured and open-minded way, that is in accordance with community standards, censoring the Internet can protect vulnerable populations including children from sexual exploitation, reduce hate crimes and terrorism. Internet “freedom” is an abstract concept. In reality, people are being damaged by real problems that are the result of an unfiltered Internet. Internet Filtering will make both the Internet and the world a better place.

 The above video gives a detailed explanation on how internet filtering works