The world changes fast, and in order for OpenDNS to keep our Web filtering category descriptions as accurate as possible, we regularly evaluate whether the descriptions are still relevant to our user base. Today we’re announcing two Web filtering category updates that should add an essential layer of clarity around which websites belong in two important categories. As with many of the features we deliver, these improvements were motivated by the feedback of both the domain tagging community and our users.
Sexuality Category
The sexuality category includes websites that, “provide information, images or implications of bondage, sadism, masochism, fetish, beating, body piercing or self-mutilation.” And that won’t change with this update. However, we’ll be updating this category description to explicitly state that the category is not intended for LGBT related sites that do not fall under the aforementioned criteria. What category would an LGBT site fall under? It wouldn’t. We see no reason to create one.
Tasteless Category
The tasteless category includes websites that, “contain information on such subjects as mutilation, torture, horror, or the grotesque.” The definition will be updated to reflect that this category also includes pro-anorexia and pro-suicide related sites. These types of domains have always been included in this category by our community, but we think updating the definition will provide more clarity for users who wish to specifically block this type of content on their networks.
The full descriptions of all Web filtering categories apply to both OpenDNS Parental Controls and the Web filtering available as part of Umbrella security services for businesses. If joining a passionate community and becoming part of these conversations sounds like something that you’re into, then drop us a line!
