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July 24, 2003 -- The Center for Democracy and Technology today joined industry leaders, consumer advocates and child safety experts in launching the new version of GetNetWise, an online resource for Internet users interested in taking more control of their online experience.
Originally conceived of as a resource for families wishing to tailor their children's online experience, the 2.0 version of GetNetWise is expanded in its goals and scope. In addition to addressing issues related to assuring a positive online experience for children, the site now addresses concerns about spam, privacy and computer security.
The success of the original GetNetWise is evident in its reach across the Internet. PC World Magazine called it one of the most linked to sites on the Internet.
"Since the original launch of GetNetWise in 1999, the Internet has changed, and the needs of users have changed," said Jerry Berman, CDT's President. "This launch of GetNetWise 2.0 reflects that evolution by bringing users the technologies and tools they need."
The site is not a substitute for legislation on privacy or spam, where users deserve a baseline of legal protection. "The Internet is a global medium, and user empowerment tools such as those featured in GetNetWise make it possible for consumers to tailor their online experience in the borderless environment," Berman emphasized, "Whether we have laws in the US or not to address these issues, consumers need access to information about their rights and responsibilities online, and about when and how they can take action to take charge of their online experience. And they need the technologies to help them do so."
Among the sites enhanced features is the introduction of animated flash presentations that provide a visual demonstration to users who may wish to make use of filters, clear their browser cache or disable cookies. In many cases, these video tutorials show users how to take advantage of technological tools that are accessible on their computers, but of which they may be unaware or not know how to use. The flash presentations walk them through, step-by-step, the process of using those tools.
The new site extends its reach to a broad range of Internet users. "GetNetWise kept in mind the needs of senior citizens, children, and the average Internet user as they've upgraded the site," said Paula Bruening, staff counsel at CDT. "We're excited about participating in the relaunch of this resource, endorsed by so many computer security, child safety and privacy experts. Its enhanced and expanded resources represent an important step in promoting the goal of putting more control over the online experience into the hands of Internet users."
For more information please contact Jerry Berman, jberman@cdt.org, Paula Bruening pbruening@cdt.org, or Ari Schwartz, ari@cdt.org, at (202) 637-9800.
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The Center For Democracy & Technology |