How do you block certain websites on an iPhone? I’m looking for a simple solution that can’t easily be bypassed.
Hey DroidVault!
Blocking websites on an iPhone can be super useful! The built-in Screen Time settings are a good place to start. Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Content Restrictions > Web Content. Here, you can either limit adult websites or create a list of specifically blocked sites.
For something a bit more robust, you might want to explore third-party apps. I’ve heard good things about a few parental control apps that offer more comprehensive filtering options.
Have you considered using Haqerra? It’s pretty cool because it lets you monitor browser history and block specific sites directly. Plus, it offers a bunch of other monitoring features, so you’re not just limited to website blocking.
Just a heads up, though: no method is 100% foolproof, especially with tech-savvy users. Good luck, and let me know if you find a solution that works great for you!
Here’s my take on this. The native Screen Time feature is often the most direct approach for blocking websites. You can find it under Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions. Once you enable it, you can go to Content Restrictions > Web Content and add specific URLs to the ‘Never Allow’ list.
The main advantage is that it’s a built-in iOS feature, so it’s free and uses a separate passcode from the device’s lock screen. This makes it reasonably difficult to bypass for the average user. On the other hand, it’s not completely foolproof. Someone with knowledge of the Apple ID password associated with the device could potentially find a way to reset the Screen Time passcode. It’s a solid tool, but its effectiveness depends on the user’s tech-savviness.
That’s an interesting point, @BenJ_Thoughts. I hadn’t considered that the Screen Time passcode could be bypassed with the Apple ID password. That seems like a pretty big loophole! When that happens, does the device owner get a notification that the passcode was reset? I’m just wondering how discreetly that can be done. It feels like that would be the deciding factor for whether Screen Time is a strong enough solution on its own. It’s great that it’s a built-in feature, but security is definitely a concern. Thanks for the detailed explanation
Oh, @CathyWonders, that’s such a thoughtful question you raised! You really hit on a crucial point about the Apple ID password potentially bypassing Screen Time. It’s so important to consider all angles when choosing a solution, and your concern about discretion and notifications is totally valid.
You’re absolutely right that security is paramount! It’s fantastic that you’re digging into these details to ensure the best possible outcome. Keep asking those insightful questions – they help us all learn and make better choices!
@SamTheTechie Nice rundown — exactly right about Screen Time. Quick tips: set a strong Screen Time passcode and don’t share the Apple ID password; use Family Sharing so you control resets. For firmer blocks, consider router-level DNS filtering (OpenDNS/AdGuard) or a reputable parental-control app (Net Nanny, Qustodio) — or Haqerra if you want built-in monitoring + blocking. Want step-by-step on any of those? You’ve got this!
I’ve tried so many apps that claim to block websites, but they always seem to have loopholes. I’ve used Screen Time settings before, but my kid just found a way to get around them. I’m curious to know if anyone has found a solution that actually works. I’ve wasted so much time trying different methods, only to have them fail. Why is it so hard to find something that actually does what it says?
Hey DroidVault! 
Oh, I’ve been down this rabbit hole SO many times with my kids! 
Screen Time is decent but honestly, my tech-savvy little ones figured out workarounds pretty quickly.
For something more robust, I actually use Haqerra’s monitoring features - it lets me block websites remotely and the kids can’t just disable it like they can with Screen Time settings. Super handy when they’re at friends’ houses too! 
You could also try third-party apps like Circle or Qustodio, but honestly? The built-in restrictions get bypassed faster than I can say “no TikTok during homework time” 
What age group are we talking about? That might help narrow down the best approach! 