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Parents of children using Apple devices are growing increasingly reliant on the built-in parental controls in iPhones, iPads and Macs to try to keep their kids’ online experiences safe – but do they work?
According to recent test findings by Germany’s Stiftung Warentest consumer advice magazine, these controls may not be as foolproof as parents might think.
The testers said they could access unsuitable and disturbing content in third-party apps despite the age restriction being switched on.
Furthermore, some security measures can easily be bypassed, allowing kids to continue using apps beyond the time limits set by parents.

“Children who manage to do this can chat or play all night long,” the testers reported. Apple’s parental controls appear to work only within its own apps and services, but leave major gaps with third-party apps like YouTube and Google Chrome.
Parents can create a family group and manage settings through the screen time function, which allows limits on screen time, age restrictions for media, communication rules and app permissions.
But, as the test revealed, these controls can be bypassed.
Specifically, children could exploit the supportive access mode, available since iOS 17 was released in September 2023, to continue using games or messaging apps even after their allowed screen time had expired.
In addition to time limits, parents can set age and content restrictions to prevent children accessing offensive music, films or other media intended for older audiences.
We take reports of problems related to screen time very seriously. We are continuously working on improvements and will continue to make updates
Apple’s official comment
However, testers could access disturbing content including horror clips on YouTube, and play restricted music on Spotify, even after content had been blocked in screen time settings.
In response to the findings, Apple issued a statement acknowledging the issue and reaffirming its commitment to improving parental control features.
“We take reports of problems related to screen time very seriously. We are continuously working on improvements and will continue to make updates,” it stated.
Apple clarified that its screen time content restrictions primarily apply to its own apps. While third-party apps can implement Apple’s filtering systems, they are not required to do so.
For platforms like YouTube, parents must use the app’s specific parental controls to block undesirable content.

Despite some limitations, the testers said there are still several ways parents can use Apple’s screen time menu to create a safer digital environment for their children.
According to the test, some parental control features function effectively. For instance, time limits are implemented reliably for Apple’s own apps when used in standard mode.
While setting technical restrictions is essential, it’s equally important for parents to engage with their children regarding device usage.
Monitor their activities occasionally, participate in their digital experiences and ask open-ended questions. This approach fosters trust and ensures that children feel included in decision-making.
When imposing restrictions or bans, provide clear and thoughtful reasons. “Explain your concerns to help your child understand why certain rules are necessary,” the testers advise.
Also try to work with your child to create specific and consistent guidelines, for example by agreeing on set usage times: After school, children might be allowed 30 minutes on their devices, followed by a 1.5-hour break, during which the devices stay with parents.
In the evening, parents can collect devices, or children can place them in a designated, visible spot to ensure accountability.
If a child doesn’t follow the agreed rules, address the issue constructively. Discuss the consequences of breaking the agreement, such as a one-day device ban.

For repeated violations, experts suggest gradually increasing the time-out period to reinforce the importance of adhering to the rules.
This approach not only helps regulate screen time but also instils a sense of responsibility in children.
Although the study focused on Apple devices, Windows and Android devices also offer parental control features to help protect children online.
However, parents should be cautious: relying solely on default settings is not enough, as these protections are not foolproof.
Microsoft provides resources through its Microsoft Family Safety platform, offering detailed guides and instructions on how to configure parental controls effectively.
Google offers comprehensive tools via its Google for Families hub. This includes guidance on creating a safer internet experience for children and step-by-step instructions for setting up protections on services like YouTube, Google Search and general Android devices using Family Link.
While these tools can help manage screen time and filter content, proactive parental involvement remains crucial to ensure a secure and balanced digital environment for children.


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Gadgets

Security measures on Apple iPhones, iPads and Macs to protect children from unsuitable content don’t work, recent software tests show


Security measures on Apple iPhones, iPads and Macs to protect children from unsuitable content don’t work, recent software tests show.


Parenting: teens

iPhone

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