EAgency Systems, a California-based security company, launched its Radar software that can monitor incoming calls by sending real-time message alerts on another phone or online whenever someone is trying to call who is not on the approved call list. Although it has limited scope since it is currently working on BlackBerry devices and other smartphones, the company is said to be negotiating for its software to be compatible with Motorola Razr phones.
"A lot of what was happening online is moving to the cell
phone--cyberbullying and harassment--and most of its use is unmonitored."
--Bob Lotter, founder, EAgency Systems
Radar software can help parents monitor their kids' incoming calls and help secure them through constant monitoring, real-time actually, from say harassers or cell phone scammers. In addition to this, there are also added services such as Global Positioning System (GPS) software that can help parents locate their kid's whereabouts.
According to the security company, it has developed a web-based software that lets parents log onto a secure site, called Mymobilewatchdog.com, to manage their account. Once a parent signs up for the monthly service, Radar will download the software wirelessly to a compatible phone. The parent then goes online to set up a child's friends and family call list, and can log back on anytime to see a record of all calls (numbers and duration), full text messages, and soon, MMS picture messages, which have been sent to the Radar-installed phone. And if anyone who's not on that approved list tries to call or text-message the child's phone, Radar sends a real-time alert to the parent's phone, regardless of his or her carrier or hardware.
But one drawback is the child's ability to fend off over the top nosy parents that clever kids will often find a way around tracking software. For example, youngsters have been known to use web proxies to work around filters installed in school computer labs. There is also news of kids using aluminum foil to disable GPS locators on the cell phone (gotta try this out haha).
On the upside, this software can be used by law enforcement agencies someday in obtaining evidence against harassers, predators and scammers.
1 comment:
There is still the issue of privacy. Because of its susceptibility to abuse, this software/program might be used by people to invade another person's privacy.
Post a Comment