Latest news with #ParentalControl
Mid East Info
23-06-2025
- Mid East Info
e& puts online safety first with new parental control service for families
In an important step towards improving online safety for children across the UAE, e& UAE, the flagship telecom arm of e&, has launched a new online safety solution called 'Parental Control.' This comprehensive service delivers a complete parental control solution, empowering parents to filter content, regulate internet access, and set usage limits to foster a secure and controlled online environment for their children. Khaled ElKhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, e& UAE, said: 'In today's digital age, children are more connected than ever, often without the guidance or safeguards needed to navigate the online world safely. They encounter a vast digital landscape filled with opportunities but also unseen risks. In an era where digital safety is paramount, our Parental Control service empowers parents with cutting-edge tools to create a secure and balanced online experience for their children.' A 2024 study by the UAE Cyber Security Council and Kaspersky Labs reveals that 97 per cent of children in the UAE regularly use various gadgets, with tablets being the most popular at 68 per cent, followed by smartphones at 57 per cent. The study also highlights children's most common online activities, with 64 per cent spending their time watching videos, pictures, and photos. Additionally, 52 per cent engage in playing video games, while 42 per cent use the internet for educational purposes, such as preparing for classes or studying. Furthermore, 48 per cent of children aged 11-14 have been contacted by a stranger online. These findings underline the widespread and diverse online habits of children, further emphasising the need for enhanced digital safety measures. With Parental Control's features, including device monitoring, parents can seamlessly block unwanted applications with a single click, creating a safer digital environment for their children. Content filtering adds another layer of protection by restricting access to inappropriate websites, ensuring a more secure and responsible browsing experience. The service also protects against emerging cybersecurity threats by blocking access to malicious websites and unsafe downloads—helping shield children from phishing attempts, scams, and other online risks. Additionally, the screen time feature empowers parents to set customised time limits on internet usage, encouraging healthier digital habits. Designed for ease and efficiency, these features give parents greater control over their children's online activity, helping them navigate the digital world with confidence and peace of mind. e& UAE offers several Parental Control packages for its postpaid, prepaid, and eLife customers, available through the e& UAE app and website at AED 30 per month, with a first-month free trial. The 'Parental Control Mobile' option allows parents to monitor and manage devices wherever their children are—whether connected to mobile data or Wi-Fi—ensuring protection on the go. It provides coverage for up to 10 devices. The 'Parental Control Home' option, on the other hand, provides unlimited protection for all devices connected to the household Wi-Fi network—delivering always-on security inside the home. Additionally, these services are available for free with the purchase of select Samsung devices or a Kids SIM Card, making it easier for parents to safeguard their children's online activities. The Parental Control service is designed for seamless compatibility across devices, ensuring a hassle-free experience for families. It fully supports both iOS and Android devices, allowing parents to manage their children's online activity regardless of their preferred platform. Additionally, no SIM card is required for a child's phone or tablet, as the service operates smoothly over both Wi-Fi and mobile networks, providing continuous protection and flexibility across different connectivity options. About e&: e& is a global technology group committed to advancing the digital future across markets in the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Europe. With the group's financial performance in 2023 showing a consolidated net revenue of AED 53.8 billion and a net profit of AED 10.3 billion, e& continues to maintain its position as a financial powerhouse, reflected by its strong credit rating and solid balance sheet. Founded in Abu Dhabi over 48 years ago, e& has evolved from a telecom pioneer into a technology group. Its footprint now spans 38 countries, offering a comprehensive portfolio of innovative digital services ranging from advanced connectivity, entertainment, streaming and financial services to AI-powered solutions, cloud computing, ICT, cybersecurity and IoT platforms. The Group is structured around five core business pillars: e& UAE, e& international, e& life, e& enterprise and e& capital, each catering to distinct customer and market needs. These pillars empower e& to lead in various sectors, from telecom and digital lifestyle to enterprise services and venture investments. The ongoing strategic investments in AI, IoT, 5G and cloud services reinforce its leadership in the global technology landscape, driving the future of smart connectivity and innovation. Driven by innovation, sustainability and a commitment to digital empowerment, e& is set on creating a smarter, more connected future for individuals, businesses and communities. About e& UAE: e& UAE is the flagship telecom arm of e& in the UAE, built on a 5-decades legacy of connectivity excellence. Our mission is to deliver world-class superior connectivity experiences that fuel the UAE's future-focused innovation. Leveraging the latest world-class technologies, e& UAE aims to transform lives and industries, turning every connection into an opportunity for growth and every interaction into a transformative possibility. We are focused on expanding our core services and digital marketplaces by enriching consumer value propositions that cater to new lifestyles and emerging demands beyond core telecom services, including health, insurance and gaming. As a trusted enterprise partner, e& UAE continues to power entire industries with 5G and AI, delivering a tailored ecosystem of solutions to meet their connectivity needs and more, empowering them to automate, innovate, transform, and scale. Strengthening our leadership position as an AI-powered telco, e& UAE delivers seamless connectivity, cutting-edge AI solutions, and sustainable innovation to uplift people and communities, and empower businesses and industries, so everyone thrives in a digital-first world.
Tahawul Tech
23-06-2025
- Business
- Tahawul Tech
e& puts online safety first with new parental control service for families
Abu Dhabi – e& UAE, the flagship telecom arm of e&, has launched a new online safety solution called 'Parental Control.' This comprehensive service delivers a complete parental control solution, empowering parents to filter content, regulate internet access, and set usage limits to foster a secure and controlled online environment for their children. Khaled ElKhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, e& UAE, said: 'In today's digital age, children are more connected than ever, often without the guidance or safeguards needed to navigate the online world safely. They encounter a vast digital landscape filled with opportunities but also unseen risks. In an era where digital safety is paramount, our Parental Control service empowers parents with cutting-edge tools to create a secure and balanced online experience for their children.' A 2024 study by the UAE Cyber Security Council and Kaspersky Labs reveals that 97 per cent of children in the UAE regularly use various gadgets, with tablets being the most popular at 68 per cent, followed by smartphones at 57 per cent. The study also highlights children's most common online activities, with 64 per cent spending their time watching videos, pictures, and photos. Additionally, 52 per cent engage in playing video games, while 42 per cent use the internet for educational purposes, such as preparing for classes or studying. Furthermore, 48 per cent of children aged 11-14 have been contacted by a stranger online. These findings underline the widespread and diverse online habits of children, further emphasising the need for enhanced digital safety measures. With Parental Control's features, including device monitoring, parents can seamlessly block unwanted applications with a single click, creating a safer digital environment for their children. Content filtering adds another layer of protection by restricting access to inappropriate websites, ensuring a more secure and responsible browsing experience. The service also protects against emerging cybersecurity threats by blocking access to malicious websites and unsafe downloads—helping shield children from phishing attempts, scams, and other online risks. Additionally, the screen time feature empowers parents to set customised time limits on internet usage, encouraging healthier digital habits. Designed for ease and efficiency, these features give parents greater control over their children's online activity, helping them navigate the digital world with confidence and peace of mind. e& UAE offers several Parental Control packages for its postpaid, prepaid, and eLife customers, available through the e& UAE app and website at Dh30 per month, with a first-month free trial. The 'Parental Control Mobile' option allows parents to monitor and manage devices wherever their children are—whether connected to mobile data or Wi-Fi—ensuring protection on the go. It provides coverage for up to 10 devices. The 'Parental Control Home' option, on the other hand, provides unlimited protection for all devices connected to the household Wi-Fi network—delivering always-on security inside the home. Additionally, these services are available for free with the purchase of select Samsung devices or a Kids SIM Card, making it easier for parents to safeguard their children's online activities. The Parental Control service is designed for seamless compatibility across devices, ensuring a hassle-free experience for families. It fully supports both iOS and Android devices, allowing parents to manage their children's online activity regardless of their preferred platform. Additionally, no SIM card is required for a child's phone or tablet, as the service operates smoothly over both Wi-Fi and mobile networks, providing continuous protection and flexibility across different connectivity options. The Parental Control service can be purchased through the e& UAE website, providing a seamless and convenient setup for families:
Zawya
23-06-2025
- Zawya
E& puts online safety first with new parental control service for families
Abu Dhabi – In an important step towards improving online safety for children across the UAE, e& UAE, the flagship telecom arm of e&, has launched a new online safety solution called 'Parental Control.' This comprehensive service delivers a complete parental control solution, empowering parents to filter content, regulate internet access, and set usage limits to foster a secure and controlled online environment for their children. Khaled ElKhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, e& UAE, said: 'In today's digital age, children are more connected than ever, often without the guidance or safeguards needed to navigate the online world safely. They encounter a vast digital landscape filled with opportunities but also unseen risks. In an era where digital safety is paramount, our Parental Control service empowers parents with cutting-edge tools to create a secure and balanced online experience for their children.' A 2024 study by the UAE Cyber Security Council and Kaspersky Labs reveals that 97 per cent of children in the UAE regularly use various gadgets, with tablets being the most popular at 68 per cent, followed by smartphones at 57 per cent. The study also highlights children's most common online activities, with 64 per cent spending their time watching videos, pictures, and photos. Additionally, 52 per cent engage in playing video games, while 42 per cent use the internet for educational purposes, such as preparing for classes or studying. Furthermore, 48 per cent of children aged 11-14 have been contacted by a stranger online. These findings underline the widespread and diverse online habits of children, further emphasising the need for enhanced digital safety measures. With Parental Control's features, including device monitoring, parents can seamlessly block unwanted applications with a single click, creating a safer digital environment for their children. Content filtering adds another layer of protection by restricting access to inappropriate websites, ensuring a more secure and responsible browsing experience. The service also protects against emerging cybersecurity threats by blocking access to malicious websites and unsafe downloads—helping shield children from phishing attempts, scams, and other online risks. Additionally, the screen time feature empowers parents to set customised time limits on internet usage, encouraging healthier digital habits. Designed for ease and efficiency, these features give parents greater control over their children's online activity, helping them navigate the digital world with confidence and peace of mind. e& UAE offers several Parental Control packages for its postpaid, prepaid, and eLife customers, available through the e& UAE app and website at AED 30 per month, with a first-month free trial. The "Parental Control Mobile" option allows parents to monitor and manage devices wherever their children are—whether connected to mobile data or Wi-Fi—ensuring protection on the go. It provides coverage for up to 10 devices. The "Parental Control Home" option, on the other hand, provides unlimited protection for all devices connected to the household Wi-Fi network—delivering always-on security inside the home. Additionally, these services are available for free with the purchase of select Samsung devices or a Kids SIM Card, making it easier for parents to safeguard their children's online activities. The Parental Control service is designed for seamless compatibility across devices, ensuring a hassle-free experience for families. It fully supports both iOS and Android devices, allowing parents to manage their children's online activity regardless of their preferred platform. Additionally, no SIM card is required for a child's phone or tablet, as the service operates smoothly over both Wi-Fi and mobile networks, providing continuous protection and flexibility across different connectivity options. The Parental Control service can be purchased through the e& UAE website, providing a seamless and convenient setup for families: Contact: e& Media Office Shilpa Villait: svillait@ Nancy Sudheer: nsudheer@ Amer Obaid: amerobaid@ Noha Serageldin: nserageldin@ Grace Eid: Eid: geid@ mediaoffice@ About e& e& is a global technology group committed to advancing the digital future across markets in the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Europe. With the group's financial performance in 2023 showing a consolidated net revenue of AED 53.8 billion and a net profit of AED 10.3 billion, e& continues to maintain its position as a financial powerhouse, reflected by its strong credit rating and solid balance sheet. Founded in Abu Dhabi over 48 years ago, e& has evolved from a telecom pioneer into a technology group. Its footprint now spans 38 countries, offering a comprehensive portfolio of innovative digital services ranging from advanced connectivity, entertainment, streaming and financial services to AI-powered solutions, cloud computing, ICT, cybersecurity and IoT platforms. The Group is structured around five core business pillars: e& UAE, e& international, e& life, e& enterprise and e& capital, each catering to distinct customer and market needs. These pillars empower e& to lead in various sectors, from telecom and digital lifestyle to enterprise services and venture investments. The ongoing strategic investments in AI, IoT, 5G and cloud services reinforce its leadership in the global technology landscape, driving the future of smart connectivity and innovation. Driven by innovation, sustainability and a commitment to digital empowerment, e& is set on creating a smarter, more connected future for individuals, businesses and communities. To learn more about e&, visit About e& UAE e& UAE is the flagship telecom arm of e& in the UAE, built on a 5-decades legacy of connectivity excellence. Our mission is to deliver world-class superior connectivity experiences that fuel the UAE's future-focused innovation. Leveraging the latest world-class technologies, e& UAE aims to transform lives and industries, turning every connection into an opportunity for growth and every interaction into a transformative possibility. We are focused on expanding our core services and digital marketplaces by enriching consumer value propositions that cater to new lifestyles and emerging demands beyond core telecom services, including health, insurance and gaming. As a trusted enterprise partner, e& UAE continues to power entire industries with 5G and AI, delivering a tailored ecosystem of solutions to meet their connectivity needs and more, empowering them to automate, innovate, transform, and scale. Strengthening our leadership position as an AI-powered telco, e& UAE delivers seamless connectivity, cutting-edge AI solutions, and sustainable innovation to uplift people and communities, and empower businesses and industries, so everyone thrives in a digital-first world. To learn more about e& UAE, please visit:
CBS News
28-05-2025
- General
- CBS News
Bill advancing at Texas Capitol gives school boards, parents process to remove books in public school libraries
New bill would give Texas parents more control over books in public school libraries New bill would give Texas parents more control over books in public school libraries New bill would give Texas parents more control over books in public school libraries Texas lawmakers are taking a step closer to passing a bill that will give local school boards the ability to pull books from school library shelves. Parents will also be able to challenge books in the school libraries under the legislation. The Texas House passed Senate Bill 13, authored by Senator Angela Paxton, R-McKinney, along party lines Monday. Lawmakers in the House were set to give final approval Tuesday, but that has been pushed back until Wednesday morning. From the House, the measure will return to the Senate to review changes made by the House. Under the legislation, the state will establish a definition for harmful materials. According to legislative records, indecent content would portray sex organs or activities in a way that's patently offensive. Profane content would include grossly offensive language considered a public nuisance. There is a difference between the House and Senate versions in at least one provision, which allows the creation of a school library advisory council. The Senate version says it should be mandatory, while the House version says it should be optional. Republicans, including Representative Brad Buckley of Salado, support the bill because it gives more local control. "Senate Bill 13 understands that too often, for too long, libraries have been filled with agendas," said Buckley. "It's time to end that. But the way to end it is to empower our local leaders and our parents locally to find some resolution." Democrats, including Representative Mihaela Plesa of Dallas, expressed concerns over the legislation and said she opposes it. "Senate Bill 13 may not call itself censorship, but in effect is the same thing: giving the government the authority to decide what stories are too uncomfortable, too complicated or too real for our students to read," Plesa said. In addition to Senate Bill 13, the Texas House gave final passage to Senate Bill 6. It will allow ERCOT, the power grid operator, the ability to shut off power to large customers, such as data centers, during emergency situations. Those customers would have to have backup power. It comes as ERCOT has forecast that demand for power will surge in Texas by 2030. The bill will have to go back to the Texas Senate to work out differences. Watch Eye On Politics at 7:30 Sunday morning on CBS News Texas on air and streaming
Yahoo
15-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
TikTok is trying to be better for children. Parents are skeptical.
TikTok has introduced new safety features to protect children. TikTok is facing a series of state lawsuits that claim it's harmful to children's mental health. Child safety advocates say TikTok's efforts are welcome but not enough to solve the problem. TikTok's algorithm is so masterful it's difficult to look away. While that's good for TikTok, it might not be so good for anyone else. Mental health professionals have long warned about the dangers of social media in general, and TikTok in particular. TikTok is also now facing a series of lawsuits that say the app is dangerous to children's mental health. In response, TikTok has added features to encourage more responsible use of the app. But while child safety advocates welcome the effort, some of them say it's not enough to solve the root problem. TikTok announced its latest safety features this week. They give parents more control over — and insight into — what their kids watch. TikTok also now allows parents to set time limits. "No teen or family is the same, and whether it's during family time, school, at night, or a weekend away, caregivers can use our new Time Away feature to decide when it's best for their teens to take a break," TikTok said in its announcement. TikTok expanded its family pairing function, which lets parents see who their kids are following on TikTok, who follows them, and what accounts their child has blocked. The feature will also soon let children choose to alert a parent when they report content they think violates TikTok's rules. Titania Jordan, the chief marketing officer of parental control app Bark and author of the book "Parental Control," told Business Insider there is one problem with the new features: A kid can easily just turn them off. "I was like, 'Wow, maybe TikTok is really going to do something meaningful,' and they didn't," Jordan said. Last year, attorneys general from 14 different states sued TikTok, accusing the app of being harmful to children. The coordinated lawsuits resemble the strategy used to take down Big Tobacco and Purdue Pharma, putting TikTok in some unsavory company. Jayne Conroy, an attorney at a firm that represents some 50 plaintiffs in a separate class-action lawsuit accusing social media platforms of harming children, previously told BI that the state investigations into TikTok showed it is designed to "relentlessly engage and exploit the adolescent brain." Ariana Hoet, the executive clinical director at the Kids Mental Health Foundation, said children who spend several hours a day on social media are at an increased risk for mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. However, she said the impact social media has on children depends on how much time they spend scrolling online, what they look at, and with whom they engage. "One of the things that we always recommend is making sure that the parents are involved," Hoet said. "If you decide to give access to your child, you want to continue monitoring, you want to continue conversations, and then you want to teach them digital literacy." Hoet said it's important for parents to monitor their children's social media activity, especially given that children's brains aren't yet fully developed. "Even as adults with fully formed brains, we have a hard time disengaging," Hoet said. "Kids are never going to win. There's no way that they're going to beat out these algorithms that are created to keep them on there." TikTok has denied accusations that it is addictive to children, but has nonetheless added features like default screentime limits, family pairing, and default private accounts for children under 16. TikTok has also added a "wind down" feature for teen accounts. After 10 p.m., a pop-up will encourage teens to log off for the night with "calming music." The pop-ups are optional, however, and the teen can continue using TikTok after dismissing them. TikTok also says it will add "meditation exercises" to the wind-down prompts in the future. Jordan told BI that the wind-down and meditation features seemed like surface-level fixes that do not address the root of the issue: that social media content is addictive to children. "I don't know what child or adult is going to opt into meditating within an app that succeeds at delivering the most viral, engaging content that's personalized," Jordan said. "What do I want to do? Do I want to meditate? Or do I want to keep consuming this addictive content?" Omar Gudiño, the deputy clinical director and senior psychologist at the Child Mind Institute, said the parental controls are a step in the right direction. "It's a complex problem," Gudiño said. "We also want to be thinking about what messages we are sending at a family level and what messages we are sending in schools, so there's multiple points for interventions. There's probably more that apps can be doing themselves." Hoet said the onus for protecting young social media users' mental health typically falls on the parents. "Right now, those burden falls on parents, and that's unfair," Hoet said. "We need the tech companies to be more responsible in their design, and we need them to be more responsible in sharing the data that shows how it's impacting kids." Politicians also need to step up and create laws focused on protecting children's mental health during the digital age, she said. "We are at a place where the technology developed fast and we're catching up," Hoet said. Gudiño said tech companies designing social media apps with young audiences in mind could help. "If apps could do more to think about what content kids are exposed to or how the app is set up to keep them on for longer, there might be more to be done to help bring the risk down," he said. Gudiño said designing apps that balance children's mental health and social media's quest for user engagement might seem "incompatible," but the challenge presents an opportunity for tech companies and families to work toward a common goal. "What's the best for children's development? How do we design content and set up families for success in a way that's going to work for everyone?" Gudiño said. Read the original article on Business Insider
