Telstra Device Security and How to Set It Up for Parental Controls

In today’s digital world, we often use internet services for our daily activities. Whether accessing the internet for entertainment or for work.

When we access the internet, our devices store a lot of personal information, making them a prime target for cybercriminals. Fortunately, Telstra offers a solution to help Australians protect their gadgets: Telstra Device Security.

This service leverages McAfee’s expertise to provide a comprehensive security suite for mobile phones, tablets, computers and more. Telstra Device Security also provides parental controls for children when accessing the internet using Telstra services.

What is Telstra Device Security?

Telstra Device Security is a subscription service powered by McAfee that offers a range of features designed to protect your devices from various online threats. These features include:

• Antivirus and Anti-Malware: This core functionality shields your devices from viruses, malware, ransomware, and other malicious software that can steal data, disrupt operations, or damage your system.
• Safe Browsing: Receive alerts before visiting risky websites or clicking on suspicious links in emails or SMS messages, helping you avoid online scams and phishing attacks.
• Wi-Fi Scan (Android & iOS): This feature assesses the security of Wi-Fi networks before you connect, particularly important when using public Wi-Fi. It can also recommend using a VPN for an extra layer of protection.
• Identity Protection (Android & iOS): Monitor for breaches of your personal information on the dark web and receive alerts if your data is compromised.
• Password Manager: Create strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts and store them securely within the app, eliminating the need to remember multiple passwords. (Available on all platforms)
• Parental Controls (Android & iOS): Safeguard your children by restricting access to inappropriate websites and apps based on content category or age rating.
• Secure VPN: Encrypt your online activity and protect your personal information, especially on public Wi-Fi networks. (Available on all platforms)
• Protection Score: This feature provides insights into the overall security health of your devices, allowing you to identify areas for improvement.

Benefits of Using Telstra Device Security for Parental Controls

Telstra Device Security offers a robust suite of parental control features that can provide parents with peace of mind while their children navigate the digital world. Here are the key benefits of using this service:

1. Content Filtering:

• Age-Appropriate Content: Filter content based on age ratings, ensuring your children only access material suitable for their age group.
• Category-Based Blocking: Block specific categories of content, such as adult content, violence, or gambling, to protect your children from harmful influences.

2. App Management:

• App Blocking: Restrict access to specific apps that you deem inappropriate or distracting.
• App Time Limits: Set time limits for certain apps to encourage balanced screen time.

3. Screen Time Management:

• Daily Time Limits: Establish daily limits for device usage to promote healthy digital habits and prioritize other activities.
• Bedtime Scheduling: Automatically restrict device access during designated sleep hours.

4. Web Filtering:

• Website Blocking: Prevent access to harmful or inappropriate websites.
• Safe Search: Enforce safe search settings on search engines to filter explicit content.

5. Activity Monitoring:

• Web and App History: View a detailed history of your children’s online activities, including websites visited and apps used.
• Time Spent Reports: Track the amount of time your children spend on their devices.

Key Parental Control Features

Parental control features are designed to help parents manage and monitor their children’s online activity. Here are some of the key features to look for:

Core Features:

• Content Filtering:
  • Website Blocking: Restricts access to specific websites or categories of content like adult, violent, or gambling sites.
  • App Blocking: Prevents the installation and use of specific apps.
• Screen Time Management:
  • Time Limits: Sets daily, weekly, or custom time limits for device usage.
  • Bedtime Scheduling: Automatically restricts device access during specific hours.
• Location Tracking:
  • Geofencing: Sets virtual boundaries around specific locations, alerting parents when the child enters or exits those areas.
• Activity Monitoring:
  • Web History: Tracks websites visited and time spent on each.
  • App Usage: Monitors app usage and time spent on each.
  • Search History: Reviews search queries to understand children’s interests.

Advanced Features:

• Social Media Monitoring:
  • Content Filtering: Filters inappropriate content on social media platforms.
  • Friend List Management: Reviews and approves friend requests.
• Messaging and Communication Controls:
  • Contact Restrictions: Limits who children can communicate with.
  • Message Monitoring: Reviews messages sent and received.
• Purchase Controls:
  • In-App Purchase Limits: Restricts in-app purchases.
  • Parental Approval: Requires parental approval for purchases.

How to Set Up Telstra Device Security

Here’s how you can set up Telstra Device Security:

1. Activate Device Security Essentials (Free)

1. Download My Telstra App: Ensure you have the latest version of the My Telstra app on your device.
2. Sign In: Log in to your Telstra account using your Telstra ID.
3. Select Your Service: Go to the “Services” tab and choose your mobile number.
4. Activate Essentials: Under the “Extras” tab, find “Device Security Essentials” and toggle it on.

2. Subscribe to Telstra Device Security with McAfee Multi Access (Paid)

1. Sign Up: Visit the Telstra website or My Telstra app to subscribe to the paid plan.
2. Create McAfee Account: You’ll need a McAfee account to access the full suite of features.
3. Download McAfee App: Download the McAfee Multi Access app on your devices.
4. Log In: Log in to your McAfee account to activate the security features.

Investing in Peace of Mind

Telstra Device Security offers a convenient and effective way to protect yourself and your family online. By utilising its features, you can browse the web with confidence, safeguard your sensitive information, and ensure a safer digital experience for everyone.

For more information on Telstra Device Security and its features, visit the Telstra website or contact Telstra customer service.