Aura

WHAT IS IT?
​​Aura is a digital security platform offering a wide range of tools, from identity theft protection to VPN services. It also includes parental control features to help parents monitor and manage their children’s online activities. However, since Aura’s primary focus is security and privacy, its parental control features differ from those of dedicated parental control apps.

Good Aspects of Aura

All-in-One Digital Security Solution
Aura offers more than just parental controls; it includes identity theft protection, credit monitoring, a VPN, and antivirus tools. 

Basic Screen Time and App Management
The parental controls allow parents to set screen time limits and manage app access, helping kids develop healthier digital habits. Parents can set time restrictions for specific apps or the device as a whole.

Location Tracking
The parental control suite includes location tracking, which allows parents to see where their children are and get a sense of their movement over time. This adds an extra layer of safety, particularly for younger children.

Web Filtering
Aura includes customisable web filtering, allowing parents to block inappropriate websites across various categories (such as adult content or violence). Parents can also add specific sites to block or allow as needed, adding flexibility.

User-Friendly Interface
Aura’s interface is clean and easy to navigate, making it approachable even for users who aren’t tech-savvy. Managing settings and reviewing activity is straightforward, which simplifies the process for parents.

Identity Protection for Kids and Parents
Aura offers identity theft protection and online safety features not only for parents but also for children. 

Comprehensive Family Plan
Aura’s family plan includes coverage for multiple adults and children, making it ideal for households that want to protect both children’s devices and parents’ personal information.

Not So Good Aspects of Aura

Limited ​Social Media Monitoring
Unlike apps like Bark or Qustodio, Aura does not offer in-depth social media monitoring. This means parents may lack visibility into their children’s activity on platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, or TikTok.

No AI-Based Detection for Risky Behaviour
Aura’s parental control features do not include AI-driven alerts for risky behavior (such as cyberbullying or explicit messaging), which are common in apps like Bark. This can limit Aura’s effectiveness in proactively detecting potential safety issues.

Basic Features Compared to Dedicated Parental Control Apps​
While Aura’s parental controls cover the basics, they may not be as feature-rich as dedicated apps like Norton Family or Qustodio. Aura lacks advanced tools like real-time alerts, detailed activity logs, and fine-grained content controls.

No Text and Call Monitoring
Aura does not offer monitoring of SMS texts or phone calls, which can be a drawback for parents who want more insight into their children’s communications outside of app and internet use.

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