One of the problems with the iPhone and iPad is that the Safari browser doesn't offer the ability to lock the browser down so that youngsters using the devices are protected from some of the shady, darker alleys of the internet. However, there's a low-cost app that allows you to lock down browsing on an iOS device and keep your kids -- or grandkids -- safe.
The app is called Child Safe and is made by Finnish security form F-Secure. This application is easy to use and is ideal for anyone concerned about what a child sees on the internet when on an iPad or iPhone. The application also blocks users from ending up on harmful website such as phishing websites.
Key feature of this app include:
- F-Secure Child Safe browser with security services
- URL reputation service for filtering bad web sites (phishing, malware etc.)
- Page reputation is visible in the address bar
- Child Safe control with content category based filtering
- Three possible predefined profiles using 15 predefined content categories each for blocking/allowance
- Password protected settings when parental control enabled
- F-Secure Child Safe browser comes with standard iOS browser capabilities like stop, reload, bookmarks, back
This app costs $3.99 and for this you get one year of protection.
Now you might be wondering, what stops a child -- especially one that is curious or determined in bypassing the Child Safe browser -- from switching to the default Safari web browser? The truth is nothing, but with a few taps you can hide the Safari web browser -- and other apps -- from sight.
Here's how to do this:
- Tap Settings > General > Restrictions
- Tap Enable Restrictions
- You will now be asked to enter a passcode for the restrictions, which can be the same as or different from the normal passcode
- Now you can choose apps and features you want to hide by flipping the switch to OFF
- Flip Safari to OFF
Safari is now hidden from view. You might also want to disable other features, specifically Installing Apps, which would allow a devious child to install another browser!
