The operators of free Internet kiosks in New York City plan to disable Web browsing on publicly available tablets after reports of "lewd acts," such as people watching porn and masturbating.

LinkNYC kiosks have been replacing New York pay phones, offering free Wi-Fi access and a tablet that can be used by anyone who doesn't have their own mobile device. But LinkNYC announced today that it "will be removing Web browsing on all Link tablets while we work with the City and community to explore potential solutions, like time limits."

The tablets will still offer free phone calls, maps, and access to emergency services. New Yorkers can also continue to connect their own devices to LinkNYC Wi-Fi hotspots. But browsing on the publicly accessible tablets is being restricted after some disturbing reports.

"A Murray Hill resident was horrified when she witnessed a vagrant masturbating" at one of the kiosks "while walking her dog Sunday morning," the New York Post reported Sunday. The Post report said that "horny homeless men have been plaguing the [LinkNYC stations] since they debuted in January."

In July, "LinkNYC responded to the spate of public masturbation by adding a filtering system" to limit access to porn, Gothamist reported at the time. Users apparently found ways to evade the filters, and the PIX11 news station said this week that reports of porn watching and other "lewd acts" have not stopped. Bronx borough president Ruben Diaz Jr. expressed concern. "After learning about the inappropriate and over-extended usage of LinkNYC kiosks throughout the city, in particular in Manhattan, it is time to make adjustments that will allow all of our city residents to use this service safely and comfortably," Diaz said, according to PIX11.

LinkNYC is provided by a consortium called CityBridge through a franchise agreement granted by the city. LinkNYC's announcement today said that "some users have been monopolizing the Link tablets and using them inappropriately, preventing others from being able to use them while frustrating the residents and businesses around them. The kiosks were never intended for anyone’s extended, personal use and we want to ensure that Links are accessible and a welcome addition to New York City neighborhoods."

Despite the setback, LinkNYC is excited about the program's successes. "With 400 Links installed in three boroughs, nearly 475,000 New Yorkers and visitors have signed up to use the fastest broadband publicly available in New York City, and they have used it more than 21 million times," the group said. "We’ve heard from New Yorkers who use the Links to save data on their mobile plans, call relatives across the country, and get a much-needed quick charge."

Ars reporter Valentina Palladino used one of the kiosks last month and demonstrated the LinkNYC tablet's features in a hands-on video (link is safe for work).