Boomerang uses the Call Logs and SMS permissions in a transparent manner (discloses & prompts for access to them on install) as we need these permissions for our safe calling and safe texting features.
Google is proposing that Boomerang stop using these permissions effective March 9th otherwise they will remove Boomerang from the Google Play store.
We believe that Boomerang deserves an exception under Google’s permitted use of Caller ID, spam detection, and spam blocking. We totally fit into this exception; No parent wants strangers to be able to call their young child!
We have filled out the paperwork and await Google's decision. However, we are mystified at what Google means by stating that this must be Boomerang’s “core” functionality. That’s like having 3 kids and Google asking, which kid is your favorite!
We love all the features in Boomerang equally and I am sure that you do too. If you use our safe calling and safe texting features, please make a comment below and tell us (and Google) that you deem this “core” to Boomerang.
Note: To make a comment, you have to sign in and this support system is separate from Boomerang's Login so requires a separate sign up. If easier just email your feedback to us at: support@nationaledtech.com; Thanks!
Comments
74 comments
I sure hope that Boomerang will be able to function with all of its features, it is a fantastic tool for monitoring my kids phone habits and to make sure they are not communicating with strangers.
Google should exempt the Boomerang app from the text and call policy. It is for the security of our children. The app's developers are trustworthy and provide a helpful service.
Dear Mr. Google,
Just because you are digital and don't have kids please compute that there are some of us who do!
We, as parents, are comforted by having the right to put these permissions on our children’s’ phones. This is not a conspiracy but good basic parenting. If you care to get out of your digital bubble and investigate it yourself just...I know...Google “Kevin Esterly” and you will get just one sample of why we want to continue to do this.
With all the inappropriate material on children’s phones wouldn't you simply want to be on the right side of this?
Thank you for your consideration.
BC
Feb 12, 11:58 PST
I am so thankful I ran across this app! I tried to monitor my daughters phone myself and I was very inconsistent. Now monitoring is a breeze. I truly hope google approves the use of these core permissions because they are vital in ensuring the safety, security, and total monitoring of our children devices.
I feel like Google has missed a category of their Permitted Uses and/or Exceptions list. They did not include a "Parental Controls" use or exception. Text Message (SMS) and Call data is core to my use of Boomerang. As a respected IT employee/friend/family I've recommended many parents that are looking into getting their kids phones to purchase an Android phone/tablet and use Boomerang for this specific purpose. This is an edge that Android and Boomerang have over iPhones/iPads (or other products). Parental Control apps should absolutely (among many other permissions) be able to review, analyze, alert on, and prevent Text Messaging and Call data. Keywords and analytics can detect and report early warning signs of bullying, self-harm, etc. I certainly hope that Google will consider this category (Parental Control) and allow us to keep using Boomerang as-is and perhaps even add additional data that can be fed in to assist with detection of early warning signs regarding the well-being of monitored children.
I think this service is integral to this app and I would hate to see this be removed because of all the services this app provides I can fully monitor my special needs 13 yr old son so he can have the responsibility of having a phone and I can still keep him safe.
I understand the need to remove these features on most apps, again child safety is a big one, but there should be an exception for this when it is for apps that are ensuring the safety of our most important people that being our children and loved ones.
#ExemptBoomerang #KeepOurLovedOnesSafe
For me as well as for all of my three children, safe calling and safe texting features are definitely core features of my favourite app Boomerang. These features are one of the main reasons that makes Boomerang so great. My children are safer on electronic devices and I can help them to solve some of problems in due time. Thank you for all of functionalities and helpful support of our peaceful family life!
Yes, safe calling and safe texing is a core feature I chosen Boomerang for. Its paramount to have this level of control with kids these days
It have grate features specially bad word block it good one and blocking for number. These all amazing me thanks all.
Thank you Boomerang for your support in protecting our kids. Inside a "safe" app my 12 year old daughter had an 18 yo young man texting her. When questioned, her comment was "it's the Bible app, mom". I was able to see it because of your app. ALL of the features we have been very pleased with. If not for apps like this that work seemlessly with Android, we would be totally Apple users; which we will be if Google shuts this and others like it down. We have iPads that do not work as well with this app even from the Apple store. But, we will switch from anything Google if they do this. Kids that age are way too naive to understand true danger.
Thank you for your efforts,
Lori DeLozier
Now we have Kaspersky suing Apple over the limiting of their parental controls app.
https://www.tomshardware.com/news/kaspersy-vs-apple-antitrust-complaint-parental-screen-app,38868.html
I am looking at getting this app for my child. this is one of the features I am interested in. Did Google take this functionality away yet or are there still plans to? thanks!
Boomerang needs to be an exception to Google's rule. As a parent it is my job to keep my child safe. She has been bullied at school this year, and without boomerangs text and call reports, I won't be able to keep tabs of what's being sent to her. For example, I saw in a recent report that one of the girls bothering my daughter texted her 15 times last night.
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