Common questions
What parents usually ask before installing SafeScreen.
Compatibility & performance
Which browsers are supported?
All of them, and other apps too. SafeScreen filters at the network layer on the PC, so Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Steam, Discord, Roblox and anything else follow the same rules. You don't install or configure anything per browser.
Do I have to build my own block list?
No. Known adult sites are blocked from the start, and malware, phishing and scam sites are always blocked; SafeScreen keeps both lists up to date. Your own blocked sites, addresses and words come on top of that, for the things specific to your family.
Does it slow the internet down?
You shouldn't notice a difference. Filtering runs on the PC itself, so requests aren't routed through a distant server and the added delay is very small.
Does it work when the PC is offline?
Yes. An offline PC keeps enforcing the last policy it received. When it reconnects, it automatically picks up any changes you've made in the meantime.
Privacy & security
What data do you collect?
To run the service we handle your account details, each device's install key, the agent version, basic device info and login times. For the weekly reports we also record your child's searches and the sites they visit. Page contents are checked on the PC and never sent to us. Activity is kept for 90 days by default and only your family account can see it. You can delete it from your account whenever you like. We don't sell it or use it for advertising. SafeScreen doesn't log keystrokes, take screenshots or read messages.
Why does it install a certificate, and is that safe?
The certificate lets SafeScreen check HTTPS pages, which is most of the web. SafeScreen creates it on your child's own PC. It's unique to that machine and valid for 10 years. The private key never leaves the computer, so nobody can use it to snoop from somewhere else.
Can my child just uninstall it?
No. SafeScreen runs as a Windows service, and installing, changing or removing it requires Administrator rights, which your child's account shouldn't have. It also starts before they log in and keeps running after they log out.
Does my child know SafeScreen is on their PC?
Yes, SafeScreen isn't hidden. The PC reminds them from time to time that it's running, and when something is blocked your child sees a page where they can ask you for access. We'd suggest talking with your child about the rules you set. It tends to go better when the rules are something you've agreed on together.
Managing rules
Can I choose which YouTube channels my child can watch?
Yes, and it's one of the most popular features. You make a list of channels you trust and nothing outside it will play, so YouTube doesn't have to be fully blocked or fully open. Safe Search and Restricted Mode stay on as well.
Can I have different rules for each child?
Yes. Each child in your family has their own policy, and a child can have several devices, all kept in sync. You manage everyone from one family account.
What happens when a page is blocked?
Your child sees a block page showing the URL and the reason (URL Policy or Content Policy), with a note to contact their Family Administrator if they think it's a mistake. You can customise the wording and look of that page.
Platforms & updates
Is macOS or mobile supported?
For now SafeScreen only runs on Windows 10 and 11. We built the desktop agent first, and macOS and other platforms are coming.
How do updates work?
The agent updates itself. It checks for a newer version built for its OS and architecture. On managed PCs you can pin a maximum version or turn auto-update off with a registry key.