Obviously the best thing is to have an open relationship with your kids. But what parent do you know that has *PERFECT* children who *NEVER* do anything wrong and *NEVER* get in trouble? Right.
And you know what? Sometimes it isn't your kids that are in the wrong. Maybe they're getting bullied. Maybe their friends are in trouble. Here is a list of some apps that will help protect your cover as you track your teens’ and preteens' online comings and goings:
1. mSpy
mSpy is the top used cell phone tracking app worldwide, accoring to TopTrackinApps. Its main selling point is that you can monitor multiple things with it — who they call, what they text, which apps they use, the number of contacts, GPS location, etc. iPhone is $8.33/mo. Android Basic is $29.99/mo. Android Premium is $16.66/mo. (I’m not sure why Premium is less expensive than Basic, though)
The Spy Bubble is another jack-of-all-spying-trades. Its site does offer some cautionary, if frightening, state-of-the-world information you might find useful. $49.97 for 3 months.
3. Mobicip
Mobicip isn't so much a tracker app as one that restores a bit of control over your child's life. The middle school level blocks online shopping, gambling, dating, liquor, and chat sites. The high school level blocks content that is adult, sexual, or involves weapons and violence. Good luck with your kid not using a friend’s phone. Basic is free. Premium is $39.99 for an entire year and protects up to 5 devices.
4. MamaBear
For parents of new drivers and parents of teens with friends who have had their licenses for 20 minutes, MamaBear will let you know the speed of the vehicle your teen is traveling in. You can also view your child’s current location and monitor limited social media. Your child can send Panic alerts to parents/guardians and communicate with family via in-app messaging. There is a free version that includes ads. For ad-free, one month is $5.99, 3 months is $14.99, 6 months is $24.99.
5. MMGuardian
It allows for web filters and safe browsing, call & SMS blocking, app control, text monitoring , time limits, location and tracking, and alerts. There are MULTIPLE pricing options depending on your device (phone, tablet, iPad)…single or family plan…monthly, annual, or 5-year license.
(HuffingtonPost) Photo: Getty