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Getting "SafeSearch is locked to filter by your browser's safety settings" message in Safari?

Even after turning off "Block Adult Content"

Updated over a week ago

We're here to help.

First off, we know this can be frustrating. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience.

If you're seeing the message "SafeSearch is locked to filter by your browser's safety settings" in Safari, even after turning off adult content restrictions, this is typically related to lingering web content filtering from Apple's system.


Why does this happen?

This SafeSearch lock message appears when Apple's web content filtering system is still active on your device. This can happen for several reasons:

  • "Block Adult Content" was recently active in Roots - Even after turning it off, Apple's system might need time to fully lift restrictions

  • iOS Screen Time restrictions are still enabled - Direct iOS content restrictions might still be active



How to fix this:


Step 1: Check your iOS Settings

Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Content Restrictions > Web Content and make sure this is set to "Unrestricted Access" (not "Limit Adult Websites")


Step 2: Verify Roots settings

Go to Roots > Blocking > Blocking Settings and confirm "Block Adult Content" is toggled OFF

Step 3: Refresh the system

If everything looks correct but you're still seeing the SafeSearch message:

  1. Try "Reload Blocking" in Roots: Go to Roots > Help > Reload Blocking - This refreshes the connection with Apple's Screen Time API

  2. Restart your iPhone - This can help clear any lingering system restrictions


Step 4: If the issue persists

  • Go to “iOS Settings > Screen Time”

  • Find “Roots” and remove Screen Time access temporarily

  • Re-open Roots and give Screen Time permissions again

Need more help?

Get personal help from one of our founders here. We know this can be frustrating, and we appreciate your patience. We're happy to assist - and we'll even reward you for your valuable time!

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