Want to create a safer digital environment by blocking inappropriate websites on your devices?
I did too. So I tested several methods from across the internet to find out what works for blocking content on iPhones, Androids, and tablets.
Here they are:
- Method 1: Canopy – a parental control app and porn blocker for every device (comprehensive control)
- Method 2: Built-in iOS settings on iPhone (free)
- Method 3: Google’s SafeSearch on Android (free)
- Method 4: Adjusting router settings for a network-wide filter (very technical)
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to secure your online browsing.
Best Method — One Solution for All Your Devices (iPhone, Android, and Ipad): Canopy
With an increasing number of devices in our lives, the struggle to maintain online safety multiplies. Canopy works across all your devices, be it an iPhone, Android, iPad, or other tablet to block specific websites and content categories.
Here’s the method, the benefits and step-by-step instructions for blocking inappropriate websites with Canopy.
Method:
Canopy is a parental control app that doubles as a porn blocker for adults, offering a one-and-done solution to your digital worries.
Benefits:
Canopy gives you the power to control, filter, and block content not just on one but all your devices. It also has removal prevention, sexting prevention, location alerts, and downtime settings.
Why it’s number one:
It works for every device you have in your household. So if you’re looking to block an Android phone, tablet, iPhone, iPad, or computer, you’re completely covered. It also has a unique filtering feature that protects you from seeing nudity in unsuspecting places.
If you want to learn more about the Canopy app and its unique features, such as its real-time filtering of inappropriate content you can watch the video below:
Canopy Parental Control App and Real-Time Smart Filter
Step by Step: How to Block Inappropriate Content On All Devices (iPhone, Android, iPad, Tablets, and Computers)
Setting up Canopy on multiple devices is no more complicated than setting it up on one.
Here’s how I did it:
1. Sign up for a Canopy account: You can begin with a free trial.
2. Download the Canopy for Kids app: It may have “kids” in the name, but rest assured, it’s built for adults too. Download and install it on your iPhone, Android, or iPad—whatever device(s) you want it for.
3. Set up protection filters: Open the Canopy app or log into the Canopy web dashboard. Choose ‘Protection Settings’, then ‘Advanced Filtering’.
4. Block specific websites: Navigate to the ‘Websites’ tab on the dashboard. Click the ‘+ Add Website’ button.
5. Enter the website URL you want to block: Once you’ve added the URL, set your preferred filtering level, and hit ‘Save’.
Congrats! You’ve blocked inappropriate websites on your phone or tablet.
When it comes to digital safety, Canopy is a great go-to. There’s no match for its ease of use, versatility, and the peace of mind it brings.
→ Try Canopy today and block inappropriate websites across devices ←
Why the Canopy Parental App? A Parent and Tech Analyst Explains
Method 2: How to Block Inappropriate Websites on iPhone Using iOS Settings
Here are the method, benefits, and step-by-step instructions for blocking inappropriate websites on your iPhone. (It also can work for your iPad).
Method:
Your iPhone has a built-in ability to restrict adult content. Using your iPhone’s Screen Time settings, you can block explicit websites and create a safer digital environment.
Benefits:
The built-in settings provide an additional layer of protection for your iPhone, and it’s completely free. Plus, you won’t need to install any third-party apps.
Limitations:
The built-in filters on iOS aren’t foolproof, and explicit content can sometimes slip through, especially as new adult websites are constantly being created.
Follow These Steps to Block Inappropriate Websites on Your iPhone
Here’s what I did to use iOS settings to block adult content:
1. Open Settings: From your iPhone, go to ‘Settings’ and then tap on ‘Screen Time’.
2. Turn on Screen Time: If it isn’t activated, you’ll need to follow the prompts to set it up.
3. Access Content & Privacy Restrictions: Once Screen Time is enabled, tap ‘Content & Privacy Restrictions’.
4. Enable Content & Privacy: If not already turned on, tap the switch to activate it.
6. Access Content Restrictions: Select ‘Content Restrictions’, then ‘Web Content’.
7. Choose Limit Adult Websites: In the ‘Web Content’ section, select ‘Limit Adult Websites’. Your iPhone will now block many adult websites automatically.
8. Add Specific Websites to the Blocked List: If there are specific adult websites you want to block, you can add them manually. Tap ‘Add Website’ under ‘NEVER ALLOW’ and input the URL.
Though the built-in iPhone settings offer a decent start to restricting adult content, they might not cover all bases. For a more thorough and effective solution, I’d still recommend using a dedicated app like Canopy. Canopy’s advanced real-time filtering outperforms the built-in restrictions and guarantees you a safer browsing experience.
→ Upgrade your safety measures with Canopy today ←
Method 3: How to Block Adult Content on Android Using Google SafeSearch
Google SafeSearch is another tool in your internet safety toolkit, especially for Android users. It’s designed to filter explicit content out of your Google Search results.
I gave it a try on my friend’s Android device to make sure it works.
Here are the method, benefits, and step-by-step instructions for blocking inappropriate websites on your Android phone.
Method:
Google’s SafeSearch works by screening search results and filtering out those deemed explicit or inappropriate. However, it’s not a blanket ban, and the occasional lewd content can slip through its filters.
Benefits:
Google’s SafeSearch is simple to set up and offers a decent level of protection against explicit content on the Google Search app.
Limitations:
SafeSearch is limited to Google’s ecosystem, meaning it doesn’t filter content accessed through other browsers or apps on your Android device. And it’s not 100% foolproof; some inappropriate content may sneak past the filters.
On the other hand, with Canopy’s real-time image detection technology, no explicit content slips through, offering you peace of mind no matter which browser or app you’re using.
Follow These Steps to Block Inappropriate Websites on Your Android
Setting up SafeSearch on my Android device was easy. Here’s how I did it:
1. Launch Your Chrome Browser: Get started by opening the Chrome app on your Android phone.
2. Visit the SafeSearch Page: Type in ‘https://www.google.com/safesearch’ into your search bar on your Android or computer (as long as you’re logged into your Google account it should work).
3. Switch on SafeSearch: Check whether SafeSearch is turned on. If it isn’t, toggle it on.
4. Verify Your Google Account: SafeSearch is linked to your Google account. Make sure your Android device is logged into the correct account, especially if you activated SafeSearch from a different device.
And there you go! But remember, SafeSearch is specific to Google and won’t provide full protection in other browsers or apps.
Want to check out Canopy? Grab your free trial here.
Method 4: How to Block Adult Content on iPad (and Other Tablets) Using Your Router
Below are the methods, benefits, and step-by-step instructions for blocking inappropriate websites on your iPad or other tablet device.
Method:
By adjusting the settings on your router, you can restrict access to certain types of websites. The method varies by router brand, but most modern routers come with built-in parental controls or website filters.
This method protects iPads, phones, and laptops. It works as long as you’re on your wifi.
Benefits:
The primary advantage of using your router to block content is its wide coverage. It allows you to control the content accessible on every device connected to your network.
Limitations:
Router settings can be complicated to navigate, and some routers may not have extensive filtering options. Plus, it only works for devices connected to your Wi-Fi, meaning if the device switches to a mobile network or another Wi-Fi, the restrictions won’t apply.
Canopy works on the device level, meaning it protects your device no matter which network it’s connected to.
Follow These Steps to Block Inappropriate Websites on Your iPad
Here’s how I went about setting up content restrictions on my router:
1. Access Your Router Settings: This usually involves typing your router’s IP address into your browser’s address bar. If you’re unsure, check your router’s manual or do a quick internet search with your router’s brand and model.
2. Navigate to Your Router’s Web Filter Settings: The location of these settings will vary based on your router’s brand and model, but you’re looking for terms like ‘parental controls,’ ‘web filtering,’ or ‘access controls.’
3. Enable Web Filtering: Once you find the web filter or parental control settings, enable them.
4. Specify the Websites or Types of Content to Block: You may be able to block specific websites or filter out types of content based on pre-set categories. Again, this will depend on your router’s capabilities.
Remember, this is a network-level solution and doesn’t offer the same level of comprehensive, device-level protection as Canopy.
→ Give Canopy a try for a multi-device solution that works no matter where you are. ←
What Types of Websites Should I Block?
Understanding which websites to block can be daunting, especially given the vast array of online content.
Below are some categories you should consider blocking:
Pornography Sites
Many studies have highlighted the negative impacts of consuming pornographic material. Some of these effects include changes in perceptions about sex, relationship struggles, and alterations in brain chemistry.
If you’re interested in learning more about these effects and specific studies, check out this article on what porn does to your brain.
If you or someone you know is struggling with pornography consumption, there are resources to help. Visit this link to understand the effects of quitting porn. If you’re ready to quit, this step-by-step guide will provide you with some actionable tips.
And of course, download the Canopy app to help you build better online habits when it comes to porn.
Sites That Show or Champion Violence
Websites promoting or glorifying violence can be equally harmful. They might expose the user to distressing images or narratives, leading to desensitization or normalization of violent behavior.
Blocking these websites ensures that you and your family are shielded from potentially harmful content.
Gambling Sites
Gambling websites can be problematic, particularly for individuals susceptible to addictive behaviors. These sites might encourage risky financial behavior and can contribute to problematic gambling habits.
It’s best to block access to those websites, especially on devices used by younger family members.
Some Social Media
While social media can be a valuable tool for connection and communication, it can also have negative impacts. Some platforms might expose users to harmful content, cyberbullying, or excessive screen time.
Consider limiting or blocking access to certain social media platforms, especially for children and teenagers. Use tools like Canopy to regulate access and ensure safe online browsing.
Frequently Asked Questions
When looking for ways to block inappropriate websites on my phone and other devices, I came across questions others had asked. I’ve answered them below in case you’ve wondered about them too.
How Do I Block 18+ Websites?
To block 18+ websites across various devices, Canopy is your best bet. It allows you to block access to adult content and provides real-time filtering of inappropriate images and websites. It works across iPhones, Android devices, and tablets, making it a universal solution.
For device-specific options, you can use the built-in parental controls in iPhone’s settings or Google’s SafeSearch for Android. You can also modify your router’s settings to prevent access to 18+ websites from all devices connected to your network.
How Do I Stop My Child from Accessing Inappropriate Sites?
Again, Canopy is an excellent solution for this. It not only allows you to block specific websites but also filters out inappropriate content in real-time. It also offers features like screen time management and location alerts, which are incredibly beneficial for parents.
You can also use built-in parental control features available on your child’s device. These settings usually let you restrict access to adult content and limit the usage of certain apps.
How Do I Block Inappropriate Websites on My Tablet?
The process of blocking inappropriate websites on your tablet depends on its operating system.
For iPads, you can use Canopy or the built-in Screen Time settings. If your tablet is Android-based, you can set up Google’s SafeSearch and/or use Canopy.
Alternatively, changing your router’s settings to block certain websites can prevent access to them from any device connected to your network, including your tablet.
Other guides for blocking content
You may be interested in our other how-to guides for blocking inappropriate content across a variety of devices:
