BLOCKIT: A Parental Control System Using Rule-Based Algorithm
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65141/ject.v3i1.n1Keywords:
parental control, Rule-Based Algorithm, context filtering, Web-Based System, online safetyAbstract
Children are now more exposed than ever to the continuous use of the internet due to advancements in technology. Unfortunately, this exposes children to many dangers and risks associated with inappropriate materials and too much exposure to online platforms. This calls for an effective way to ensure that children can access and utilize the internet appropriately while avoiding the above-mentioned dangers. The study developed BlockIt, a web-based parental control system using a rule-based algorithm that offers a way for parents or guardians to regulate online activities of their kids and create personalized restrictions regarding websites, impose internet usage limitations based on time, as well as monitor all activities undertaken by their kids on the computer. The system uses a rule-based algorithm that automatically restricts or gives access to particular websites depending on the set rules by parents. The study used the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to assess the system, where 100 respondents, who consisted of parents/guardians of internet-using children, participated in the assessment process. The evaluation used a five-point Likert Scale Questionnaire and was done using Google Forms. The findings revealed that the system scored an overall rating of 4.52, which is Highly Acceptable. In the evaluation criteria, behavioral intention to use was rated the highest at 4.61, while perceived ease of use was rated the lowest at 4.41. Moreover, the system testing revealed an estimated 93% website-blocking accuracy with minimal false-positive and false negative occurrences, while website filtering and rule enforcement were executed within an average response of 1–5 seconds under a controlled local network using smartphones, tablets, and laptops connected through a MikroTik router. BlockIt achieved all the intended goals by incorporating the following features: activity monitoring, time-based internet restrictions, real-time content filtering, and a web-based parental dashboard. These aspects help to strike a balance between children exploring online resources freely and parents being in charge of what is happening.
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