Camfrog ( V3.6 ) created by "camshare software" Is a multi user video/voice chat client, which enables worlwide user connection.

Originally camfrog began as a small video chat program - relatively unheard of. but due to its state of the art video transfer rates and seemly "lagg free" use, it has quickly climbed up to the top 50 most downloaded programs on www.download.com ( source: Cnets download.com 278th feb 2006 )

At any one time camfrog has been known to have 20,000 active users. Some using its cam2cam feature and others participating in one of its 400+ multi user webchatrooms. These are split into "all ages" and "18+" - although the all ages rooms are arguably suitable for children under 16.

popularity

Camfogs client base is inclining very rapidly, from december 2005 - feb 2006 its median active user base increased 12% ( source : www.camfrog.com ) This is generally becuase of the freeware version of the software as well as the eas of use.

safety

Camfrog is very vunerable to such acts of live video pornography, child porn ( -18 ), unwanted webcam recording and is also prone to cracked versions of the software. There is a camfrog policy - and perhaps legal, that users of age 13 and under cannot partake in the program unless accompanied my an adults supervision. As for pornogaphy in the 'all agess' rooms - people caught doing this will be I.P banned from the designated chatroom by one of many reliable active operators.

facts

camfrog is free. there is a full version which has a one time fee. there is an active user base of 20,000+ and an overall offline user base of much more. see the website for current statistics. there is no spyware, but there is optional ad-aware that is chosen on install. There are risks of minors exposing themselves, and this is dealt with seriously.

The framerate is 15/fps ( frames per second ) when compared to MSN messenger which streams webcam at 5/fps

addictions

The program can potentially be HIGHLY addictive, as it plays on psychological needs of communication and connection these can be exploited as users can be connected to live video feeds of friends 24/7. Once active on the program for a period of time its more than possible to build friedship bases internationally, this means users may have friends on all day everyday, connecting with them may lead to isolation from "reality" and can result in forms of anxiety, depression, recusivness and distubed sleeping patterns.

it is reccomended by the Australian occupational health and safety standards 2004 that users take breaks after every 2 hours. and sit one arms length from the computer screen. Regular drinks and eye excersises are also important - this means looking into distances and close up. Repetive strain injury may also occur in some users. This can be resolved by relaxing the wrists and stretching them often. ( this information is not to be used as a substitute for real health advice and is only for consideration )

conclusion

The program can be used well, and can be enjoyed by almost all users. There are issues such as the odd " wanker cam " that seems to slip through and access the " all ages " chatrooms. But they dont seem to last very long ( 1 minute max ) As with many video/gaming programms they must be enjoyed with balance and addictions are possible.

tools / software plugins

kermit 5.4 operator tool created by ( www.pervology ) mis piggy chatroom server tool ( www.pervology )