The Federal Communications Commission is turning its eye towards cell phones after cracking down on television and radio stations for indecent content. In response, the wireless industry is acting to shield children from adult content in the increasing market for mobile devices.

"With adult content available from a myriad of sources, now more than ever it is important for carriers, content providers, and parents to know what is being done by industry to prevent access to adult content by minors," said John Muleta, head of the FCC's wireless bureau.

Urging the wireless industry association, CTIA, to inform parents of the adult content accessible through phones, Muleta added, "Through responsible action on the part of wireless carriers and content providers this important social goal can be achieved without government intervention and without interference to the provision of content to adults."

Approximately 21 million 5 to 19-year-olds had cell phones by the end of 2004, accounting for over 33% according to technology research firm IDC.

"The goal is to have a rating system in place and also provide additional tools in the form of filtering systems," said Joe Farren, director of public affairs at CTIA.

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1. Posted by TyeFang	Thu Feb 17, 2005 12:47 am
There is now an adult website out that can be viewed on just about any mobile phone or pda (or hybrid) that can get to the web. It's just nude galleries and not pornography, but still, it makes you think about how easy it will be for kids to get access to all sorts of websites that will work on their phone. I think some sort of regulations or filters are a good idea...kinda like how yahoo groups does with adult content groups. The site I am referring to is called pocketthumbs (not going to post the link) and it has nude galleries and even videos. Just think if this was some sort of smut site (its not, but there will be many soon enough), it would be all too easy for kids to get access to it.
2. Posted by GSMDude	Thu Feb 17, 2005 1:26 pm
What's to prevenet kids from getting on a computer and surfing for porn anyways? If they're going to do it, they're going to do it. I think restricting cell phone usage is just ridiculous. The FCC should find something better to do.

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