How to Safely Search on Google

ByJim Miller

Google Search is a powerful tool that provides a wealth of information at your fingertips. However, it's important to ensure a safe search experience, especially for children. The SafeSearch feature on Google Search allows you to hide explicit results and create a safer browsing environment. In this article, we will guide you on how to turn on/off SafeSearch on Google Search across various platforms.

How to Turn On/Off SafeSearch on Google Search on Desktop

On the desktop, you can toggle SafeSearch in two ways: through Google Search settings or the Quick Settings option.

  1. Open Google Search on your preferred desktop browser.
  2. On the homepage, click on the Settings option at the bottom right corner.
  3. In the pop-up menu, select the Search Settings option.
  4. Under the Search results category, you will find the SafeSearch Filters option.
  5. Enable or disable the checkbox beside the Turn on SafeSearch option to turn on or off SafeSearch.
  6. Scroll down and click on the Save button to save the setting.

Alternatively, when you are on any search results page, you can click on the cog icon at the top right corner. In the sidebar that appears, enable or disable the toggle beside the Explicit results filter to quickly turn on or turn off SafeSearch.

How to Turn On/Off SafeSearch on Google Search on Mobile Browser

The process of turning on or off SafeSearch on the mobile browser is similar to the desktop version.

  1. Open Google Search on your preferred mobile browser.
  2. Scroll down to the bottom and tap on the Settings option in the footer of the website.
  3. In the pop-up menu, tap on the Search settings option.
  4. Under the SafeSearch Filter section, select Show explicit results to turn off SafeSearch or Hide explicit results to turn on SafeSearch.
  5. Scroll down and tap on the Save button at the bottom of the screen.

How to Turn On/Off SafeSearch on Google App on Android and iOS

If you prefer using the Google app on your phone, follow these steps to enable or disable SafeSearch.

  1. Open the Google App on your Android or iOS device.
  2. Tap on the profile icon at the top right corner, then select the Settings option in the pop-up menu.
  3. In the Settings page, select the Hide explicit results option.
  4. On the next page, enable or disable the toggle beside the Explicit results filter option to turn on or turn off SafeSearch.

How to Turn On/Off SafeSearch on Your Child's Google Account

To ensure a safe search experience for your child, you can create a Google account for them using the Family Link app. By default, a child's account has SafeSearch enabled, and they do not have the option to change the setting. However, you can double-check and make adjustments if needed.

  1. Open the Family Link app on your Android or iOS device.
  2. Tap on the hamburger menu at the top left corner and select your child's account from the sidebar.
  3. Scroll down and tap on the Manage settings option.
  4. Under the Google Search option, make sure the toggle beside SafeSearch is turned on.

For your child's account, you also have the option to block websites on Google Chrome. Instead of selecting the Google Search option, choose the Google Chrome option. You can then enable the Try to block explicit sites option and manage the list of blocked sites.

By following these steps, you can create a much safer Google search experience for yourself and your family. SafeSearch helps filter out explicit content and ensures a more family-friendly browsing environment. Remember to adjust the settings on each platform to ensure a consistent safe search experience. Enjoy exploring the internet with peace of mind!