The idea of Internet Accountability is simple: A person will not view inappropriate material on the internet if others could see what they have viewed. This concept is not new. Our Sages tell us that a shomer (guardian) that has the ability to check up on someone is an effective safeguard against sin. Many Halachic authorities have declared the Internet to be no different than being alone with a woman (yichud). The most effective way to counter this is by appointing a shomer - someone that can "checkup" on your activity and ensure the internet is being used only for good.
The KBA Initiative (KBA = K’nas Based Accountability)
New! Launched at the Jerusalem Kenes – 28 Sivan / June 17, 2012 by Venishmartem in conjunction with Yishmereini.
Free for the first 100 people joining!
Yishmoreini is an accountability system that was set up in Lakewood a few years ago, whereby everyone in a given Kehillah or Shul signs up to have their internet usage monitored through the Covenant Eyes software. Suspicious reports are reviewed by a live representative and if they are found to be problematic, the report is sent to the person’s Rav. To protect privacy, each member has a code number and only the Rav knows which code belongs to which member.
One drawback to the standard Yishmoreini model is that it is not easy to get the cooperation of an entire Kehilla and its Rav. After the recent internet Assifa in Citi-Field, Yishmoreini has been bombarded by requests from around the world. Although they have many Shuls signed up in Lakewood, they are not able to provide a solution for those people whose Rav and Kehilla are not involved.
And that’s where the KBA (K’nas Based Accountability) system comes in!
By joining the Venishmartem Community on Yishmoreini.com, you can remain anonymous and the ones reviewing the reports do not know who you are. The accountability is achieved instead through a “K’nas” that is agreed upon during sign-up. The reports are checked over by a live person to make sure there is no room for mistakes. If a bad report is confirmed, your credit card will be charged the predetermined K’nas within 48 hours (and you will be sent an e-mail of chizuk and resources that can help you stay strong for next time).
How to Sign Up:
Go to our secure sign up page and enter your name or a nickname, your email address and payment details. (Don't worry, we won't charge you a cent unless we get a bad report!).
Once you submit the form we will email you your license code and instructions on how to download and install the software.
WebChaver (using the acclaimed Covenant Eyes software) will send an easy-to-read report of your internet activity to a Chaver of your choice; a spouse, parent, or friend, who can view the report and ensure your browsing integrity.
EBlaster is a highly recommended program that records and reviews all computer activity. It organizes the recordings into reports and automatically e-mails them to any address you choose (a spouse, parent, friend or Rav), as often as you like.
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