CONVERGE JOINS FIGHT AGAINST ONLINE CHILD PORNOGRAPHY
CHILD pornography is one of the challenges being faced by children while surfing the Internet. This became a huge concern especially during the long Covid-19-related lockdown when the young and older folks alike were forced to study and work remotely.
In line with this growing online threat, Converge Information and Communications Technology Solutions Inc. (Converge) recently installed the required available technology, program and software compliant with the National Telecommunications Commission guidelines.
“People stuck at home during the pandemic continue to seek human connection through the online community. In light of Safer Internet Day, we would like to remind parents and guardians of children to take proactive steps in using the Internet responsibly,” said Converge founder and CEO Dennis Anthony H. Uy said in a press statement. “Converge will continue to implement safety and security measures such that explicit and malicious content will not continue to propagate online.”
Uy said the firewall system installed by Converge can check the data that flows into the network then substantiates it if it is safe to pass through to the business. He added this technology prevents unauthorized access to or from a private network, preventing the circulation of explicit or malicious content. Furthermore, Uy pointed out that Converge has a Secure Domain Name Solution that blocks at the domain level those web sites carrying child pornography material. He also assured the tools used by Converge for Firewall and DNS Solution are sourced from the most reputed companies in the industry.
Through its online channels, Uy said the company is also doing its share in the fight against false and malicious information, providing positive content that includes needed information in encouraging the public to remain vigilant against the same. Likewise, Uy stressed young Internet users are given access to high-quality online experiences if they are more exposed to positive online content such as materials that enable individuals to learn and develop their analytical and creative skills. He said these experiences enhance their awareness on safety through positive content. Quick access to online support is offered by Converge to all its subscribers so they may all stay connected in a secure manner. Any report of inappropriate or illegal content and behavior online is taken seriously and immediately acted upon.
“In delivering our promise to elevate the Filipino’s Internet experience, security is our top priority as we seek to empower individuals to explore the digital experience with minimum risk,” said Uy. “Converge continues to invest in the right technology to ensure a better online environment for people of all age groups, but most especially for the younger generation. We believe that we are in the position to create an environment that encourages secure online services through self-regulation of content and services so that Filipinos may achieve success.”
Washington-based International Justice Mission pointed out in its study that the Philippines is the global hotspot for online child sexual exploitation, worsened by lockdown restrictions. Increased risk of harm through the spread of false information or malicious content that is especially dangerous for children puts Converge in a position to protect the younger generation by promoting the responsible, respectful, critical and creative use of digital technologies.