The cloud-based and AI-powered Content Filter, by the Colorado-based ManagedMethods, is designed to help schools comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and E-rate requirements, according to a news release Monday. The platform operates directly on the browser while students are logged into school-provided Google Chrome accounts, proactively identifying the potential for various websites to involve self-harm, suicide, sexually explicit content or cyber bullying.
In addition, Content Filter allows administrators to track the last known location of a device and monitor multiple accounts on the device. This can help prevent unauthorized use and identify if the device has been stolen or lost, according to the news release.
ManagedMethods CEO Charlie Sander said in a public statement that “years of research and development” went into producing a cloud-based content filter.
"Our customers have long been asking us to develop a web content filter,” he said.
ManagedMethods previously developed Cloud Monitor, a cybersecurity tool for use with Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace.
According to the ManagedMethods website, Content Filter uses two kinds of filtering: by keyword, scanning websites for inappropriate expressions, words and phrases; and by media content, using AI to scan images and videos for harmful material. It also has a “reputation-based URL filtering” function that accesses existing website warning lists. In addition, the tool allows IT administrators at the school or library to customize their own category filters and curate their own sets of unauthorized sites.
According to the Federal Communications Commission, CIPA, enacted in 2000, requires schools and libraries to implement safety policies that restrict minors’ access to harmful materials online, protect their personal information and prevent them from engaging in hacking or other illegal online activities. Under the federal E-rate program, schools and libraries are eligible for discounted Internet service if they comply with the CIPA. The discount rates range between 20 percent and 90 percent, depending on the poverty level of the school districts. In 2021, the E-rate program provided more than $4.27 billion to schools and libraries.
