BLOCKIT: A Parental Control System Using a Rule-Based Algorithm
Jeann C. Monticalbo | Marjorie N. San Juan | Prince Barron M. Rosendal | Francis Balahadia
Discipline: Information Technology
Abstract:
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 abovementioned dangers. The study developed BlockIt, a
web-based parental control system using a rulebased 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 rulebased 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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ISSN 3082-3684 (Online)
ISSN 3082-3676 (Print)