Troubleshooting: Why Can't I Get Google SafeSearch to Unlock Settings

If you've been with me since the introduction to Google SafeSearch, all the way through the comparison of Google SafeSearch with SafeSearch from other search engines, give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back - you're awesome!

Today, I'll tackle one of the most common questions buzzing around SafeSearch: Why can't I unlock Google SafeSearch settings? If you're dealing with this issue, consider today your lucky day, because I've got the solution you need! Let's jump right in!

Understanding How SafeSearch Can Be Enforced

Before we explore why you might be unable to unlock Google SafeSearch settings, first understand how SafeSearch can be forced.

Google Account Settings

In addition to an individual's SafeSearch settings, SafeSearch can also be influenced by Google account settings. With the account settings, users can simply customize their ages and parents can control their child's Google search settings.

As we mentioned earlier in the first article, once the account age is set under 18, SafeSearch will be automatically enabled and this can not be adjusted until you change it back to the legally required age. Note that minors in some regions can still unlock the SafeSearch settings.

Additionally, if a Google account is under supervision by parents or school administrators, SafeSearch will be automatically enforced and can only be changed by them.

Google Domain Mapping

Mapping the Google domain to forcesafesearch.google.com is a technical way to enforce SafeSearch across users' networks. This involves using SafeSearch VIP (Virtual IP) to redirect and route all Google Search traffic through the SafeSearch feature. And Google will process the requests that it receives on the VIP, then offer filtered safe web, image, and video search results.

DNS Configuration

Strict SafeSearch can also be implemented by changing the DNS configuration on the network. When users on your network perform a search on Google, their requests are routed through Google's SafeSearch DNS IP addresses. These servers automatically enforce SafeSearch settings on any device connected to your network, consequently filtering out explicit content in search results.

Firewall Rules Configuration

Firewall rules configuration is another way to enforce Google SafeSearch setting on the browser. The firewall monitors all outgoing traffic on your network, including DNS requests. By creating a rule, the firewall can identify DNS traffic and redirect it to SafeSearch DNS servers. This ensures SafeSearch settings are enforced on all devices connected to your network.

Parental Control Apps or MDM Software

Beyond the above technical ways, SafeSearch settings can be locked if a parental control app or Mobile Device Management (MDM) software is installed on your device.

Parental control apps, such as Google Family Link and AirDroid Parental Control, and MDM allow guardians or businesses to enforce SafeSearch directly through the app's settings or an independent browser. Besides, these apps can also monitor and filter web traffic to block inappropriate content.

Why Can't I Get Google SafeSearch to Unlock Settings?

After understanding how SafeSearch can be enforced, I believe the cause of the problem that you can't turn off SafeSearch is clear at a glance. And the following are the detailed reasons:

1You're Under 18 Years Old

While Google allows users to customize and unlock SafeSearch settings, certain users, particularly those under 18 in some regions, are restricted. This measure is in place to enhance the safety of children and minors while navigating the web.

Therefore, if you're unable to unlock the SafeSearch setting, the first step is to check the age on your Google account and ensure it isn't set to under 18. Of course, don't lie about your age because Google will require you to verify your age.

2Your Account or Device Is Controlled by Parent or Administrators

Notice a padlock icon next to the SafeSearch toggle and a message showing "Your SafeSearch setting is set by your parent/organization?" Then, it is because your account is controlled by parents, school, or network administrators.

Generally, parents enforce and change the SafeSearch settings via Family Link or their account settings. Administrators often use the Google admin console for Google Workspace accounts or DNS and Firewall rules configuration to enforce SafeSearch.

On your school computer, the school administrator can also configure the browser policies or map Google domains to forcesafesearch.google.com to always use SafeSearch and disable access to change the settings.

3Your Country Enforce SafeSearch

If you stay in a certain region, particularly some parts of Middle East Asia, the Google SafeSearch settings are locked by governments. The idea is to protect citizens from exposure to inappropriate or politically sensitive material.

The governments in these regions usually achieve this censorship by redirecting Google DNS to the one controlled by them and one typical example in this regard is Iran. So, if you're in these countries that implement a strict policy on the Internet, you are not able to unlock or turn off SafeSearch.

4You're Connected to Public WiFi Network

Is your device connecting to public WiFi in places like schools or libraries? If yes, you may find it difficult to unlock your safe search setting. Most of the public WiFi networks or Internet Service Providers (ISPs) often do this to ensure they comply with local law and enhance a family-friendly browsing environment for users of all ages.

Is There Any Way to Turn SafeSearch Off When Locked?

Yes! Once you've discovered why your SafeSearch is locked, unlocking it will become a breeze. Now, let's look at several ways to unlock restricted SafeSearch settings.

Fix 1. Change the Age on Your Google Account

For minors under 18, the Google SafeSearch setting will be automatically locked. To fix this, go to change the age on your Google account from the account setting. Follow the steps below to change the age on your account.

Fix 2. Ask the Account Manager to Unlock SafeSearch

If your SafeSearch is locked by your parents or school administrators, the best way to unlock such restriction is by contacting them to remove your account from supervision or set "Off" or "Blur" SafeSearch for your account.

Fix 3. Visit Google without an Account

When your Google account is controlled and cannot get what you want due to SafeSearch, try to add a new profile in Google and use it without signing in. This time, you can own and control your SafeSearch settings.

Fix 4. Use VPN

If you're in a region where SafeSearch restriction is automatically enforced, you can simply bypass the restriction by using a VPN. When you're connected to a VPN, your internet traffic appears to come from the VPN server instead of your actual location. This hides your real IP address and makes it seem like you're browsing from the server's location.

While VPNs are good for bypassing network restrictions, not all of them are safe or free. So, always opt for a reliable VPN and I won't make any tool recommendations here.

Fix 5. Try a Different Network

If it is locked while you're connected to a public WiFi network, then try a different network or use your personal mobile data or hotspot. Doing so makes your device bypass any restrictions or filtering policies set by the public Wi-Fi provider.

Ready to Turn Off SafeSearch?

If you're ready to embrace anything on the Internet and want to turn off Google SafeSearch, first ensure you are over 18 years old.

Additionally, keep in mind that turning off the SafeSearch setting comes with both pros and cons.

On the positive side, you'll have unrestricted access to broader information across different facets of life when you turn off Google SafeSearch settings.

On the flip side, turning it off means you'll be exposed to several inappropriate content, including violence, porn, and offensive materials which could be harmful to your mental health or your moral compass.