Many parents buy an Xbox or PlayStation 5 for their kids, thinking of them as just for games and chatting with friends. But these consoles are actually powerful computers with built-in web browsers that can access the whole internet, including adult and unsafe sites. While parents often set up safety rules on computers and phones, they may forget about the gaming console in the living room. This leaves a gap in home security. Kibosh offers a way to close that gap and help keep your kids safe while they play.

The Hidden Risk of Gaming Browsers

A gaming console can access the internet just like a laptop. The browser on a PS5 or Xbox Series X lets kids search for anything, visit social media, or watch videos. Most parental control apps do not work on these consoles. You cannot install safety or filter apps on them because they do not allow outside software. This means your child could reach harmful content with just one click.

Gamers can also be targeted by scammers. Phishing sites and malware can infect a console, leading to stolen accounts or lost data. Regular antivirus programs do not protect consoles. You need a tool that works outside the device, blocking threats before they appear on the screen.

Why Built-in Console Controls Often Fail

Microsoft and Sony offer their own safety tools, but these can be difficult to use. You need to create an account for each child and lock the settings with a PIN. Kids are clever and might guess the PIN or find ways around the rules. These built-in settings do not update often and do not keep a current list of harmful websites.

Managing these settings can be a hassle. You have to go through the menus on both the Xbox and PlayStation, and if you have more than one child, you repeat the process several times. It is easy to make mistakes, and kids might find ways around the rules to watch videos or visit sites you wanted to block. A simpler way to manage your home is needed.