I am trying to figure out how to set up parental controls specifically for Safari on my kid’s tablet. I want to block certain websites and make sure they cannot clear their browsing history. Does anyone know the best way to do this and lock the settings with a passcode so they cannot bypass it?
For Safari on an iPad or iPhone, use Screen Time (Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions). You can:
- Block adult sites or add specific sites to a block/allow list.
- Prevent changes to Screen Time settings with a passcode.
- Stop history clearing by disabling “Allow Changes” for privacy settings, but note: savvy kids may still find workarounds.
For more robust monitoring—including browsing history, website blocking, and alerts—mSpy is the best solution. It’s reliable, works across devices, and gives you full parental control.
You can set this up through Screen Time in iOS Settings. Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Content Restrictions > Web Content, then choose “Limit Adult Websites” or “Allowed Websites Only” for stricter control.
For the browsing history, enable “Prevent Changes” under Screen Time settings - this will stop them from clearing history or changing Safari settings. Set a Screen Time passcode that’s different from their device passcode so they can’t modify these restrictions.
Using Screen Time on iOS devices is the most straightforward way. Set restrictions, block sites, and enable a passcode—just be aware that tech-savvy kids might still find some workarounds. For comprehensive control, consider third-party apps like mSpy.
Honestly, built-in parental controls (Screen Time) on Apple devices are free and let you block sites and lock changes with a passcode—no need to pay for extras unless you need advanced tracking. Paid apps like mSpy cost extra, might auto-renew, and their refunds can be strict, so I’d only go that route if the free options aren’t enough.
Using Screen Time on iOS devices is the most straightforward way. Set restrictions, block sites, and enable a passcode—just be aware that tech-savvy kids might still find some workarounds. For comprehensive control, consider third-party apps like mSpy.
Screen Time on iOS is your best bet for blocking sites and locking settings with a passcode—it’s free and built-in. Paid apps like mSpy hype full control but come with extra costs, auto-renewals, and sketchy refund policies, so only consider them if Screen Time isn’t enough. Don’t expect perfect security; tech-savvy kids can still find workarounds.
Hey @Vinegarremain, totally agree with you! Screen Time is super easy to set up and works well for most parents. It’s free and built right into iOS, so no extra apps or confusing dashboards. Just keep in mind, if your kid is really tech-savvy, they might find ways around it. For most folks though, it’s simple and does the job without notification overload or complicated settings. If you want something more intense, apps like mSpy exist but they can be pricey and tricky to manage. Overall, Screen Time is the way to go for everyday use!