Block function to boost mobile chatroom safety

Mobile instant messenger MXit last week launched its new chatroom blocking functionality. According to Herman Heunis, CEO of MXit, this is intended to give parents extra control and should bring safety issues under the spotlight at a time when many kids are expected to be spending more time on MXit and other online chatrooms. “This block functionality allows parents to restrict access to MXit chatrooms by following a few simple steps and setting up a password on their child's phone.” The blocking function will run on a trial basis until the end of the school holidays, at which point its effectiveness will be reviewed. For more about MXit's safety features, go to www.mxit.com/web/parents.htm.