Comments on: Q&A: A passion for protecting kids

Parry Aftab, founder of a global Internet kids-safety nonprofit, is turning her charity work into a consulting business for the fast-changing world of Web 2.0.

[custompcmax]

This is a great idea, a firm focused on what can be done to help monitor and keep people (specifically kids) safe on the web. The only problem I see is, for every company that uses her firm, there will be 1000 that don't. So, yes, it will protect the sites that are involved from becoming a site that is a breeding ground for problems, but that may keep people away. There is fine line that needs to be walked between keeping people safe and not turning away customers. But, any development in the area is good.

[onlineyoda]

When Parry was practicing law fulltime, she was best known for blending "doing it right" with helping clients balance the safety and business. That's why she has been so well received, I think IMHO. Anyone can make it look hard to set hard rules. Only the best can make it look easy and make sure that safety is understood as being good for business. That's her skill. That's why the industry listens when she talks to them.
She gets it and understands their needs while addressing the need for safety.

I want to figure out how to earn the seal.

[bestmomever0110]

Wow, this is genius! I am always unsure of what sites my kids are going on, how safe they are, what control do I have if something goes wrong - and it releives some of that stress just knowing that someone as knowledgeable and safety-minded as Parry Aftab will be working towards a better cyberspace. I've read many articles on her over the years, seen her on NBC Today Show, 20/20, Dateline, Good Morning America, etc. She's EVERYWHERE! And really knows what she's talking about.
I'm glad SOMEONE out there is taking initiative. One person REALLY can make a difference. Thanks Parry!

[DJBnetGuy]

I am starting my own Social Networking site that is set to launch before back-to-school. I was in the know that Ms. Aftab wasn't taking on any personal clients until now. I just visited www.wiredtrust.com and it isn't up yet. Any one know how I can reach her? I need her help immediately. Thanks. -DJB

[kidspal]

Visit her at http://www.wiredsafety.org/. You will get her conatct info also.

While you are at it please visit www.kidspal.net and tell us what you think.
KidsPal

[cybersmart]

No one is better prepared to offer a service like this than Parry Aftab and Wired Trust.

[kidspal]

Sounds like a good initiative, but I get the sense that Parry Aftab wants to go this on her own with Wired Trust. With her legal background and experience she certainly has a contribution to make. But safety online is more than a legal matter. The major social networks are committed to working towards a safer space online for young people and other initiatives ate already under way. It is a huge issue and there are many stakeholders, not only in the US but worldwide. It requires a multi-disciplinary, multi-faced team with lots of cash to come up with good solutions. Good that she is thinking of doing this in multiple languages and I have access to technologies that would help. But as a technology business consultant with many years experience myself, I question whether her approach will be successful on a solo initiative. Social networking is the way of the web especially with Web 2.0 and this applies to monitoring, certification and regulation. Why not invite trusted names and people to work towards such a goal? In my opinion, it would be time better spent!
KidsPal