Apple to Fix Software Bug That Bypasses Web Restriction for Kids

Apple is finally fixing a Safari content restriction bug that allows children to access certain websites that should not be available to them.

According to reports, kids were able to bypass the restriction set by parents by pasting a string of characters in the Safari address bar.

Apple Addresses Safari Bug for Content Restriction

The Wall Street Journal's Joanna Stern revealed that she reached out to Apple after trying to bypass a restricted website on her son's iPad. The Screen Time feature was supposed to block access to websites that feature violence, pornography, and more.

In a response to Stern, Apple acknowledged its awareness of the issue. The company claimed that it is an "issue with an underlying web technology protocol for developers, which allows a user to bypass web content restrictions."

The tech giant also assured that they are currently fixing the bug. The solution for it is expected to be released in the next software update.

Apple Safari Bug was Ignored for Years

According to reports, Apple was first contacted about the bug in 2021. The string of characters worked on restricted content across iPhones, iPads, and Macs.

Despite the initial report, Apple directed the researchers to submit a report through the Feedback tool. However, there was no news or action from the company even after resubmitting the form.

Apple is now fixing the bug after Stern's report was published. Some speculate that parents might also not be aware of the workaround as the security researchers never shared the discovery with the public.

The tech giant has promised that it will improve the processing of its customer complaints. The receiving and escalation for bug reports will be included to fix.