Michael Hartanto1
03/04/2016
Prof Ware, HCCS
ENGL 1302
Dear Editor,
I am writing this letter in response to your article that you have explained thoroughly in
“The Undercover Parent” from nytimes.com on March 16, 2008. In your article spyware is
portrait as a program to guard children from harm, but I must say that it is not true.
To begin with, early on your article you imply that the privacy of the children is safe
because it is not invaded by the government, but by their loving parents. I agree that it is
better to be invaded by parents rather than the government. However, being invasive to
their privacy would only create distrust between children and parent that could even last
for a lifetime.
Next, you also argue that it is not wise to give children full freedom over the access of PC
without observance. I want to bring it to your attention that it is not accurate. Installing
spyware will make children more dependent to their parents or other people. It might also
effect children’s decision making, they might not be able to create a competent decision.
Although spyware seems to keep children away from harm, it does not help them to be a
better individual. It will create a feeling of distrust and makes children more dependent to
other people. Communication in family is the proper way to ensure children’s safety rather
than relying on a software.