These days, most kids can get around Internet filters if they are really wanting to. So rather than avoiding the issue of what your kids are looking at on the Web, you might want to actually monitor what they are pursuing so it can be discussed with them later. Here is a free program that will help to get you on your way.

Called X3Watch*, this service tracks websites visited from a specific computer. It then regularly sends a report of potentially inappropriate websites accessed by that computer to an accountability email address which you designate.

Who Uses Accountability Software?
This service is a great tool for parents wanting to know if inappropriate websites are being accessed from the computer(s) in their home. It is also used by adults wanting to “be held accountable” for their own web activities under the watch of an accountability partner.

Why Do I Need an Internet Filter if I have Accountability software?
Accountability software will only report inappropriate web activity from a computer after the fact. It does nothing to prevent accidental or purposeful exposure to obscene web material. Only by having an Internet filter are you protected from this unwanted content.

However, the recording and notification features of our free accountability software act as a perfect backup for your Internet filter. Accountability software provides peace of mind that your Internet filter is working properly and makes web surfing an “accountable” activity for everyone using the Internet. [Read the rest]