A Chicago startup that offers internet parental control services has run into a problem. If a home's broadband is provided by an internet service provider like Comcast, Time Warner Cable, or AT&T, and it has an ISP provided router, the home can't access the company's services.
WebCurfew, a 2013 Techstars alum, takes an innovative approach to parental controls by not only blocking certain websites, but is also allows parents to set timers for when their kids can access the internet, and it can turn the internet off completely with the tap of a button. And it works with all devices using the home's router.
But the company noted that more than 50 percent of prospective WebCurfew clients that visit its site can't sign up for the service because their ISP router is blocked. So it has turned to Kickstarter to crowdfund for a device that bypasses the blocked router and speaks with WebCurfew's cloud service directly.
The Kickstarter looks to raise $25,000 be Sept. 12 in order to design and manufacture the devices. WebCurfew has developed a fully-tested device that's ready to ship, but is looking to design a device that is more cost effective to mass produce, according to the Kickstarter. The campaign has raised just over $700 after the first day.
"The truth is ISPs will do whatever they can to 'lock you in' to using only the services they provide," the Kickstarter reads. "Unfortunately, when it comes to internet parental controls... their offerings are horribly outdated and ineffective, if they exist at all.
"Delivering consistently poor customer service is one thing, but it is simply irresponsible for ISPs to stand in the way of your ability to control your children's internet usage."
