There are several rating systems in place on the Internet. Most use a system of technical specifications known as PICS (Platform for Internet Content Selection) to rate their content. PICS is the framework for rating systems, not a rating system in itself.

Online rating systems work in a variety of ways. Some use a system similar to television or movies, and label Web sites according to age-appropriateness. Other use labels or seals to identify approved Web sites. Most work with Web browsers or filtering software to block sites they've identified as inappropriate.

Web sites rated with any of the following systems will display the appropriate logo on their home page.

		The ICRA (Internet Content Rating Association) is an independent international organization that rates Internet content. The system labels sites using broad categories including chat, language, nudity, sexual content, violence, gambling, drugs and alcohol. Internet Explorer is currently designed to block sites using ICRA ratings.
		The RSACi system, which is administered by ICRA, rates sites on their level of sex, nudity, violence and offensive language. The RSACi rating system is being phased out and replaced with the ICRA rating system. In the meantime, both Internet Explorer and Netscape browsers are designed to block sites using RSACi ratings.
		The ESRBi system is administered by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), the same body that rates video and computer games. ESRB provides ratings for Internet Web sites, chat rooms, bulletin boards and multi-player games. Internet Explorer is designed to block sites using ESRBi ratings.
		SafeSurf was the first rating system on the Internet. SafeSurf uses a 12-category system to rate Web sites according to age level and content. Both Internet Explorer and Netscape are designed to block sites using the SafeSurf rating system.
		TRUSTe identifies Web sites that comply with acceptable privacy guidelines. A TRUSTe "kids· seal" is awarded to children's Web sites that obtain verifiable parental permission before collecting information from children, and also inform parents how the information will be used.

Tip: Before using any rating system, it's important to review it to ensure that you agree with the selection criteria.