[2 September 2015]
Implementing basic parental control over the content available on a mobile phone in South Africa is quite simple, unless you are using Cell C or Telkom Mobile, in which case a third-party provider is necessary.
If you are concerned about a child’s use of a mobile phone, there is no excuse for not taking this fundamental step. Additionally, it is somewhat surprising that Vodacom and MTN do not promote the following measures more prominently.
Dial 111123#
Both Contract and Prepaid customers can use this service. Unblocking the adult content restriction requires you to be physically present and provide proof of age; it cannot be done over the phone. The service is free of charge.
Some terms and conditions apply
Dial *101# from the handset on which you want to restrict content.
Select the content category you wish to block.
Create a PIN (this number will allow you to change the filter settings or remove it entirely in the future).
Enter your cellphone number to receive updates on the filter’s settings.
Input your chosen PIN.
The service is free of charge.
Telkom Mobile & CellC
Inquiries made to both providers received responses indicating that such services are not currently available. However, they do intend to offer these services at an unspecified future date. This is despite articles from as far back as 2011 suggesting that Telkom would implement these services in 2012.
Alternative options:
There are, of course, third-party options, such as:
- Mobicip, a cross-platform (Android, Windows, iOS) monitoring and control software – This seems to be one of the most highly regard of the current offerings.Service is free with further paid capability.
- Smylesafe for Blackberry
Please note that these controls will not restrict:
- user-generated content (e.g. home videos, clips and personal pictures)
- content over Bluetooth®
- person-to-person MMS messages