Microsoft released its latest Web browser today, which includes a feature – dubbed by some as the "porn mode" – that allows users to visit Web sites anonymously.
Internet Explorer 8's "InPrivate" browsing option removes all traces of a user's activities while online. Once users log out of the program, it will erase their Web history, cookies, temporary Internet files, user names and passwords and Internet searches. That could make it a particularly popular feature with those who want to hide their viewing of pornographic Web sites.
However, Microsoft says it will not override any parental controls already in place.
Daniel Weiss, senior analyst for media and sexuality for Focus on the Family Action, said it's unfortunate that Microsoft has made it easier for people in trouble with pornography to get deeper into their addictions.
"The tragic offshoot of this product is that more children will be drawn into pornography, more marriages threatened and more families torn apart," he said. "With each challenge, however, Christians have an opportunity to proclaim a stronger, deeper and more beautiful vision of sexuality than society typically understands."
