New Webkinz Chat Has Great Safety Features

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Posted July 19th, 2008 by Hanniel "Lumina" Shariat

Webkinz has always been safe for your kids, but now they've found a way of to give them more freedom while they chat and still keep them safe. Read the article from their website below to find out all the details as well as instructions on how to grant or deny access.

From Webkinz:

"The Webkinz Clubhouse is a place for kids to socialize with friends in a fun and safe environment. In the KinzChat area, kids use our pre-constructed chatting system called KinzChat. Members cannot type in their own words in KinzChat; they can only use the phrases and words we’ve created.

In KinzChat PLUS, we’ve given our members a bit more freedom. They are able to type in their own phrases and words, as long as they are in our acceptable word and phrase dictionaries. Words and phrases that we deem unacceptable cannot be sent in KinzChat PLUS (the words will change color in the text box and the member will not be able to send them). KinzChat PLUS uses two systems of filtering; word filtering, which identifies specific objectionable words, and phrase filtering, which identifies specific objectionable phrases. Again, it is impossible to send words and phrases that we deem unacceptable. Because of this filtering system, the spelling of words must be accurate. For this reason, we recommend KinzChat PLUS to our older members, ages ten and up.

“Both boy and friend are acceptable, but used together they are not – that is why this phrase is orange.”

"Our filters are designed to block inappropriate or personally identifiable words and phrases, including numbers."

KinzChat PLUS allows members to report other members who they feel are misbehaving or using unacceptable language. Any member being reported for inappropriate behaviour or language may be suspended from using KinzChat PLUS.

Please note that even with the word and phrase filtering, it is still possible that you may see something said that you find unacceptable. The best way to decide whether KinzChat PLUS is right for your child is to use the system with your child. Also, please note that unless you specifically grant permission for your child to play in the KinzChat PLUS area, they will not have access to this part of the Clubhouse."

Go to the Parents Area at Webkinz