Automated systems built for protection

Google processes billions of searches per day. Our automated systems enable Google to handle the immense scale of so many searches.

Our systems are designed to prioritise what appears to be the most useful and helpful content on a given topic. Our systems are also designed not to surface content that violates our content policies.

For example, even when SafeSearch is off, our ranking algorithms are designed to reduce unwanted sexualisation by limiting porn or explicit results for queries that aren't seeking them out.

Policies to protect children online

We’ve carefully developed content policies for Google Search to balance concerns about content safety, alongside the need for a search engine to provide access to information.

For example, we have implemented a policy to help anyone under the age of 18 to request to have images of themselves removed from search results. One instance where this could be useful is to reduce the risk of cyberbullying.

We also partner with organisations globally to provide resources to combat key content safey issues like child sexual abuse.

High-quality information in moments of need

When you search for information about sensitive topics, like health or in emergency situations, you might see an informational panel from authoritative sources or get crisis prevention information in your search results.

This information comes from partnerships with recognised authoritative sources and crisis services across the web.

Content filters for explicit content

For an added layer of protection, you can turn on SafeSearch to help filter most explicit results, like pornography.

SafeSearch is on by default for signed-in users under 13 (or applicable age in your country) who have accounts managed by Family Link. Parents also have the option to turn it off or block access to Search all together. In the coming months, we’ll turn SafeSearch on for existing users under 18 and make this the default setting for people under 18 setting up new accounts.

When you use other Google products to search, you also have options to filter content like limiting certain websites on Chrome or by filtering music with explicit lyrics on Google Assistant.

Manage your child’s account and devices

Set up parental controls and supervise your child’s account with tools like Family Link.

Family Link helps you manage your child’s account and devices as they explore online. Set screen time limits, manage the content that your child can see, and know their location when they have their device with them.

School administrators can manage what children discover online

Many schools already have policies in place for SafeSearch and other tools to help build safe digital learning environments

Within primary/secondary schools that use Google Workspace for Education products, SafeSearch and SafeSites are now on by default, and Guest Mode and Incognito mode will be disabled to ensure a safer experience for children from primary school level all the way up to sixth form. School admins can still change each of these policies on Chrome OS for individual organisation units; for example, turning off SafeSearch or allowing the use of Guest Mode.

Find family-friendly content so you can explore together

Whether it’s finding out what to watch, or picking games to help you learn at home, we’re investing in being more helpful when you search for information as a family.

You can now discover family-friendly games and activities on Google Assistant through our Actions for Families programme.