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Operating systems

Android

Critical risk

Use Family Link to supervise an Android device from the start. Check browser access and installs from outside the Play Store, which can bypass store restrictions. Menu names vary by manufacturer.

Three things to do first

  1. 1

    Set up Google Family Link

    Do not wait until after a child has already added apps and contacts.

  2. 2

    Turn off Install unknown apps

    This closes one of the biggest Android bypass routes.

  3. 3

    Require approval for every install

    That includes free games, chat apps, and add-on stores.

What to watch for

Sideloading APKs bypasses Play Store controls

Critical

A child can install apps from links, files, or third-party stores even if you have restricted the official store.

A Google account opens broad access

High

Email, YouTube, Drive, Maps, Chrome, and app sync all become active together unless the account is supervised tightly.

Family Link coverage is strongest for under-13 accounts

Medium

As children get older, some settings become easier to challenge, delay, or work around.

Browser exposure stays wide unless filtered

High

Even if app installs are approved, Chrome can still become the fastest route to explicit or harmful content.

Set it up, step by step

Family Link is strongest for supervised child accounts, especially under 13. Older teens may only get parts of the control set through Digital Wellbeing and parent agreements.

  1. 1

    Enable Family Link first

    Install Google Family Link on the parent phone and connect the child's Google account before the child personalizes the device.

  2. 2

    Approve every app install

    Open Family Link → Controls → Content restrictions → Google Play and require approval for installs and purchases.

  3. 3

    Set daily limits and bedtime lock

    Go to Family Link → Controls → Screen time and set both a Daily limit and Bedtime schedule.

  4. 4

    Turn off unknown app installs

    Open Settings → Apps → Special app access → Install unknown apps and set every app source to Not allowed.

  5. 5

    Review browser and YouTube access

    Use Family Link to set age filters for Chrome and YouTube, then test the phone yourself from the child's account.