Computer problems

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-28-2003
Computer problems
5
Mon, 12-24-2007 - 9:37am

Since my son has turned 13 we have had many issues. One issue I've had is with the computer. He downloads crap to the computer without my permission. I set up the family account as limited so that he can't do that anymore but some programs sneak by. Last night I caught his friend on our computer in the control panel- what he was doing I don't know. I kicked them off of the computer. This is a friend whom I know put a keylogger on his own computer to steal passwords

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
Mon, 12-24-2007 - 9:51am

You have good reason to be concerned and , hopefully, out more computer savvy folks will have some specific advice.

Getting him his own computer wont solve the problem if you are networked BTW.

Avatar for coldfingers
Community Leader
Registered: 04-30-2000
Mon, 12-24-2007 - 10:23am

I am not 'that' computer savvy but, this computer is a fairly new lap top purchased for my dd to use.

Photobucket
iVillage Member
Registered: 07-19-2003
Mon, 12-24-2007 - 12:38pm

The ONLY reason I put a computer in my son's room was because I trust him.

iVillage Member
Registered: 02-25-2002
Tue, 12-25-2007 - 8:59am

Yikes...I'm sure there are programs available out there, you need to speak to an expert...you know, like the Geek Squad.


All of my kids have their own computers. They are all family hand me downs with the exception of my oldest DS-18, he has a nice computer which he uses primarily for gaming. But, in general, the girls prefer to be on my computer, it is the nicest, it's in the LR, we have an open floor plan so no one feels alone, ever.


First rule I have, and I learned this the hard way and it goes for all things electronic as they are so pricey, no friends touch without my specific approval at that specific moment. If a friend messes up my computer, it's unlikely their parents are going to step up and foot the bill. And of course I retain the right to look over the shoulder at any time, without any minimizing, x-ing out or POS...lol...they also have to ask before downloading anything, at which time we defer to dad, as he knows more. Same with cell phones. No downloads. They

 

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-28-2003
Thu, 12-27-2007 - 12:13pm

Hi!

Thanks for all of the responses and advice! I think for now I may get my own personal laptop in order to do my banking etc. My son will have to resort to the family computer and I plan on installing parental controls to secure it better. I have researched some programs and found a few that might work for us. Unfortunately we have Windows XP and Parental controls are limited. I think that Vista has more options.

Thanks again,
Kim