safe-internet

New software supports safe internet use, reporting


NetSupport launches new education safeguarding module for IT asset management solution, NetSupport DNA

NetSupport, developer of the education-focused IT Asset Management solution, NetSupport DNA, has released new technology that not only helps to keep students safe on the web by monitoring and restricting the scope of their internet use, but also provides them with an avenue to report any concerns they may have-–in confidence–-to a trusted member of staff.

And with children aged between 8 and 15 now spending more than twice as much time online at school and at home as they did a decade ago, there is now more of a need for this kind of protective measure than ever.

The software’s release supports international legislation obliging schools to introduce filtering technology and monitor students’ internet use more closely to safeguard and promote their welfare and prevent them “from being drawn into terrorism.”

These innovation safeguarding tools are supplied as an integral component of NetSupport’s IT asset management solution for education, NetSupport DNA, a solution already helping schools to manage their IT assets, reduce operational costs and improve system security.

Using advanced neurolinguistics technology, the product’s comprehensive keyword monitoring feature provides schools with an insight into what students are typing (both online and in programs such as Word) and draws on an extensive database of keywords and phrases covering the spectrum of safeguarding topics: from cyber bullying, sexual abuse, eating disorders and pornography to the potential for radicalization.

This means staff can be alerted to activity by students who are potentially open to physical or emotional harm and allows them to take the appropriate action.

Ensuring students can report any anxieties they might have is key to an effective safeguarding policy. The new “Report a concern” feature of NetSupport DNA’s safeguarding module provides a simple and accessible way for students to initiate contact with trusted members of staff for help or guidance.

NetSupport has worked with internationally-operating organization, the Internet Watch Foundation, to ensure the keywords supporting the technology are as comprehensive and relevant as possible.

Talking about the Internet Watch Foundation’s collaboration with NetSupport, Nicky Peachment, IWF Commercial Relationship Manager, said: “We use our expertise to work with partners across the world to eliminate online child sexual abuse material, so we welcomed the opportunity to assist NetSupport as it developed this important safeguarding technology which we are sure will be welcomed by schools.”

NetSupport’s Managing Director, Al Kingsley, explained the decision to extend the remit of the solution: “The increasing use of technology in schools brings with it the responsibility to keep students safe. Schools that have already invested in IT management tools to ensure cost efficiencies and secure their networks, can now leverage the benefit of these extra safeguarding features at no additional cost – and those wishing to enhance their safeguarding policies will find the product’s additional management and security features (including webcam blocking; options to ensure the secure use of USB memory sticks; and the enforcement of schools’ Acceptable Use Policies) a major plus point.

“With 26 years’ experience in the sector and over 14 million users in 60 countries around the globe already, we’ve put our money where our mouth is and any school can download and try the product for free.”

To learn more about NetSupport DNA or to download a free 50-PC trial copy, visit www.netsupportdna.com/education where product video tours, walk-throughs and a range of supporting resources are also available.

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Laura Ascione
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