Strict Web Filtering - Good Security or Cause for Lynch Mob?
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@scottalanmiller said:
Just jumping on the thread. Like most things, web filtering has a place and isn't appropriate everywhere. In general, I dislike web filtering and feel that it is often used poorly when something better, like good HR policies, should be used. But there are times it is needed.
I think the trend anymore is moving toward just blocking pornograpgy/adult content/nudity/sexual education. and then blocking for security reasons if needed (downloads of *.exe's *.bat, *.msi etc) rather than blocking everything. It's always been up to the department heads places I've worked so it varied by departments.
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@scottalanmiller said:
Just jumping on the thread. Like most things, web filtering has a place and isn't appropriate everywhere. In general, I dislike web filtering and feel that it is often used poorly when something better, like good HR policies, should be used. But there are times it is needed.
People have nasty online habits. I'd rather not have to deal with the results.
They aren't mutually exclusive. You need both HR ploicies and a proxy/web filter for any one of them to be effective. -
@nadnerB said:
@scottalanmiller said:
Just jumping on the thread. Like most things, web filtering has a place and isn't appropriate everywhere. In general, I dislike web filtering and feel that it is often used poorly when something better, like good HR policies, should be used. But there are times it is needed.
People have nasty online habits. I'd rather not have to deal with the results.
They aren't mutually exclusive. You need both HR ploicies and a proxy/web filter for any one of them to be effective.If you are referring to blocking spyware, malware. Downloads of executable files etc. That's much different than blocking websites. That's just using your UTM/Content Filter as another security/anti-virus layer.
But, I don't think IT should have any say (outside of security) what websites users can go to.
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@thecreativeone91 said:
But, I don't think IT should have any say (outside of security) what websites users can go to.
100% agree. If IT does any blocking, it should be a clear and concise direction given by HR and only implemented by IT so if there is any question, work around, authorization.... IT should not be involved.
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@thecreativeone91 said:
@nadnerB said:
@scottalanmiller said:
Just jumping on the thread. Like most things, web filtering has a place and isn't appropriate everywhere. In general, I dislike web filtering and feel that it is often used poorly when something better, like good HR policies, should be used. But there are times it is needed.
People have nasty online habits. I'd rather not have to deal with the results.
They aren't mutually exclusive. You need both HR ploicies and a proxy/web filter for any one of them to be effective.If you are referring to blocking spyware, malware. Downloads of executable files etc. That's much different than blocking websites. That's just using your UTM/Content Filter as another security/anti-virus layer.
But, I don't think IT should have any say (outside of security) what websites users can go to.
Our proxy server does both content and web category blocking. We don't control to the site level unless a manager says "Employees X, Y and Z need to lose their Facebook access".
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Thank you all for your thoughts on this, given me a bit to chew on.
I especially enjoyed the comparison to manufacturing - given me something to google later
