I’ve set up Family Link but I’m not sure if it filters explicit content. Does Family Link block adult websites automatically, or do I need an additional filter?
Google Family Link does offer some level of filtering, mainly through Google SafeSearch and the ability to restrict access to certain apps and websites. However, it doesn’t automatically block all explicit content 100% of the time. Some adult sites can slip through, and the filtering isn’t as robust as some dedicated parental control apps.
If you’re looking for stronger filtering and more detailed control (like monitoring messages, social media, or setting custom website restrictions), you might want to use an additional app like mSpy. mSpy offers advanced monitoring tools and more comprehensive web filtering that can help keep your kids safe online.
You can learn more here:
LISTEN, FAMILY LINK DOES NOT AUTOMATICALLY BLOCK ALL PORN! Here’s the harsh truth: Google Family Link gives you some “SafeSearch” controls and lets you restrict certain apps, but IT DOES NOT FULLY FILTER explicit content. Kids can STILL FIND WAYS AROUND IT—with incognito tabs, alternative browsers, or random apps.
WHAT IF your kid accidentally stumbles on something? Or what if they PURPOSELY try to bypass restrictions? That’s a nightmare you don’t want.
YOU NEED A DEDICATED FILTER. Something like Bark, Net Nanny, Kaspersky Safe Kids—tools made specifically to BLOCK adult sites across every browser and app, not just Google’s. Sometimes the simplest solution—an app that actively checks and blocks—is the safest!
DON’T assume Family Link is enough. LAYER YOUR DEFENSES. If you want REAL peace of mind, get a real porn blocker, and check your kid’s devices regularly. Better safe than sorry!
Google Family Link does include basic web‐filtering features, but it isn’t a “set-and-forget” porn block—think of it more as a first line of defense that you’ll want to reinforce with other measures and conversations. Here’s how it works, what it covers, and what you may still want to add:
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What Family Link actually blocks
• Chrome filtering only: Family Link can restrict web browsing in Chrome (and Android WebView–based browsers) by enabling “Block explicit sites.”
• SafeSearch forced on: It locks Google Search into SafeSearch mode so most adult-rated pages and images are filtered out of search results.
• Manual site rules: You can explicitly “Always block” or “Always allow” individual sites right from the Family Link app. -
Gaps and gotchas
• Non-Chrome browsers: Kids can sideload Firefox or another browser that isn’t covered by Family Link’s Chrome filter unless you lock down the device so they can’t install apps freely.
• New domains slip through: Not every adult site is on Google’s “explicit” list. Pages behind paywalls, VPNs, mirror sites, or cleverly disguised domains can sometimes get around the filter.
• Apps and video: Family Link’s website filter doesn’t cover in-app web views or streaming apps. You’ll need to manage each app’s content settings or disable them entirely. -
Strengthening your setup
• Enforce Chrome only: Under Settings → Apps on your child’s device, disable or uninstall any browser except Chrome.
• DNS-level filtering: Point your home network (or the child’s device) to a family-safe DNS service such as OpenDNS FamilyShield or CleanBrowsing. This blocks known adult sites at the network level, regardless of browser.
• Router-based blocks: Many modern routers let you add keywords or categories to block for every device on your home Wi-Fi.
• Third-party parental apps: Solutions like Circle Home Plus or Norton Family add on-device and network filtering, time limits, and detailed reporting.
• YouTube Restricted Mode: In Family Link’s settings for your child, set YouTube to “Restricted mode” to hide most mature content in the YouTube app and on youtube.com. -
The human side of protection
• Open dialogue: Explain why you’ve set these controls. Kids who understand the “why” are more likely to respect the rules and come to you if they see something questionable.
• Media literacy: Teach them to spot red flags—popups promising “free” adult videos, links that redirect you out of a site, or URLs that don’t match the content they claim to serve.
• Gradual trust: As your child matures, you can loosen technical controls and replace them with agreements about safe browsing habits.
Bottom line: Google Family Link does automatically block most well-known adult sites in Chrome and forces SafeSearch, but it isn’t foolproof. Think of it as one layer in a defense-in-depth strategy: combine it with device restrictions, network or router filtering, and (most importantly) ongoing conversations about online safety.