09Dec 2019 by nrcmmc
Android vs. Apple

Android vs. Apple

Guidelines, Reviews
This article is meant to give a recommendation for choosing a device that allows the safest environment for children.  It is meant to compare an Apple iOS device with a Google Android device. Through the research process I have developed the opinion that the Google Android may offer more control of features and points of concern to a parent.  The downside will be that it requires some technical ability and determination. If you want to allow more popular apps and websites while being able to control more features inside of them, Google Android may be the safest decision.   Apple devices may allow for an easier setup / configuration and afford as safe of an environment without the granular control.  With Apple you will want to spend some time to understand…
Read More
09Dec 2019 by nrcmmc
Instagram: The Rinsta’s and the Finsta’s

Instagram: The Rinsta’s and the Finsta’s

Apps, Reviews
The Rinsta’s and the Finsta’s   As harmless as the app called ‘Instagram’ seems on the surface - a photo and video editing platform - many dark areas loom around any corner. When not set up with proper privacy settings, the user needs to be extra vigilant to protect their eyes from the content that can pop up within a few clicks or swipes.  Despite the creator’s efforts to keep inappropriate content out of it’s app, and safe for “13+” to use, images inappropriate for any age of eyes can still be found. Users are allowed to ‘Block’, ‘Report’, and ‘Unfollow’ accounts that they are not interested in or believe are not appropriate. In its simplest form the app is not harmful, though the psychological effects of any social media…
Read More
09Dec 2019 by nrcmmc
Bark App

Bark App

Apps, Reviews
Billed as the “Smart Way to Keep Kids Safe Online”, Bark is a highly-rated, award-winning monitoring tool. A few of us Siouxland MMC Members have been trying it out, and would like to share our experiences with our audience. “Bark” is designed to be like a watchdog.  It may not stop an intruder, but it’ll bark loudly to alert others about a problem, so that problem can be dealt with. Here’s what Bark is NOT. NOT a filter.  Bark does not restrict any content that a device can access. NOT a time-restriction app.  You cannot set up time limits or off-hours for your child’s device. Since Bark does not prevent a child from accessing impure content on the Internet, we cannot recommend it as the only tool you should use…
Read More