10 Best Parental Control Apps for Android & iPhone in 2024

Finding the right parental control app for Android or iOS is challenging. There are hundreds of options, each promising extensive monitoring tools, robust content filtering, and intuitive interfaces. However, how can you trust that they’ll keep your child’s data safe?

I tested over 30 parental control apps, and Aura is my top choice. In addition to key features such as web filtering, screen time management, location tracking, and app management, it also follows strict privacy measures to secure children's data. It also has a 14-day free trial and a 60-day money-back guarantee, which is plenty of time to test if it’s the right fit for you and your family.

Military-Grade Security Features

DEAL: Save 61% + 30-day money-back guarantee

Editor's Choice for Security

Our Score: 10.0

High-level encryption keeps you safe online

Verified to not collect or share data

Visit ExpressVPN

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Best Parental Control Apps — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)

1. Bark — Best for Text, Email, & Social Media Monitoring

Bark uses AI to analyze conversations and identify potential issues like cyberbullying, sexting, suicidal ideation, and inappropriate content. My favorite thing about Bark is that it sends an alert with context and recommendations on handling the situation whenever the system flags problematic content. However, content that isn’t problematic isn’t shared, so it’s good for building trust with older kids and teens.

I could connect Bark with over 30 different apps and platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube. It also supports screen time management and web filtering. Additionally, you receive notifications when your children arrive at or leave predefined safe zones. There’s even a Bark phone and watch with the app’s monitoring built-in.

The information Bark collects and analyzes includes children's online activities, text messages, social media interactions, emails, and web browsing history. I wasn’t comfortable with so much data being collected, so I regularly requested data deletion through my account settings. Additionally, the app complies with relevant privacy regulations like COPPA and GDPR.

All subscription plans offer unlimited device coverage per family. It’s compatible with a wide range of devices, including iOS, Android, and Amazon Fire tablets, as well as Windows and Mac computers.

2. Qustodio — Easy To Use With a Powerful Content-Filtering System

Qustodio offers a clean and intuitive dashboard where you can view reports, set rules, and configure settings. You can easily adjust screen time limits, set up custom routines that block certain apps for study and bedtime, and monitor your kid’s activity, even on YouTube. Its web content monitoring lets you monitor for and block content across 25+ categories, including gambling and violence.

Children can press a panic button to send their real-time location to a trusted contact during emergencies. The app also tracks phone calls and text messages to alert you of concerning conversations.

Like most parental control apps, Qustodio collects your child’s browsing history, app usage, location, and communication logs. However, it retains user data only as long as necessary for delivering the service and deletes it after a set period.

The app supports Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Chromebook, and Kindle. It offers a free plan with limited functionality like basic monitoring and reporting. The premium plan provides access to full features for multiple devices with various pricing tiers, depending on the number of devices covered.

3. Aura — All-in-One Cybersecurity Solution for Kids and Teens

With Aura, you can create individual profiles for each child, with age-appropriate content filters and screen time limits. Through a single dashboard, you can monitor and manage multiple children’s online activities across smartphones, tablets, and computers. On top of that, you can see what apps are installed on your child’s device and block them with a single click. You can even block individual YouTube channels.

Beyond parental controls, Aura offers features like identity theft protection and a VPN. It also includes financial fraud protection, which can be useful if you’re managing joint accounts or teaching teens about money. The only disappointing part is that Aura’s core features are only available in the US.

The app collects user information such as browsing habits, app usage, location data, and more. However, I was relieved that all the data transmitted between devices and Aura's servers is encrypted. The company also regularly audits its security measures to detect vulnerabilities and applies software updates to address emerging threats.

Support is available 24/7 via chat and email, and you can install Aura on a wide range of devices, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. Tiered pricing is available to meet various parental circumstances. All plans offer a 14-day free trial, and if you opt for a long-term subscription, you get a 60-day money-back guarantee.

4. Google Family Link — Well-Known Name, Great for Android

Google Family Link is a free app for Android devices and Chromebooks, which makes it a great option for parents of students whose schools have issued them a Google laptop. While it’s also compatible with iOS, some features, such as app blocking and time management, may not work with all apps.

Like most other apps on this list, Google Family Link also offers location tracking. I liked how well this feature integrated with the familiar Google Maps. I also had the option to approve or block apps my daughter wanted to download from the Google Play Store.

The app can also work on your child’s entire device to manage downtime and screen time limits. You can also set permissions for individual websites. However, it doesn’t have any inappropriate content blocking features, just web and search filtering, which it admits does not work perfectly.

To comply with COPPA, Google requires you to provide consent when setting up Family Link for children under 13. You can also create child accounts with restricted access, so your children can only access appropriate features.

5. Life360 — Easy Location Tracking for the Entire Family

Life360 specializes in location tracking, so you can see where your children are at any time. It also stores location history — I could view the routes taken and the locations visited over the past few days.

The app doesn't have content filtering or app blocking. Instead, it has a built-in messaging system and various tools for driving safely. There’s also a panic button that sends an SOS alert to all family members if someone feels unsafe. This makes it a good option for older kids, particularly those who are able to drive and may be out of the house more often.

Only invited members can view location data. The app also complies with privacy regulations like GDPR and COPPA.

You can get Life360 for free on Android and iOS. The free plan offers real-time location sharing, place alerts for two locations, and in-app messaging. Premium plans provide additional features like breakdown assistance, ID theft protection, and phone theft protection.

6. mSpy — Detailed Tracking of Social Media Activity

This app is designed to be used without your kids' knowledge or consent, which raises its own set of moral considerations. In fact, it admits on its website that the app may only be legal in some countries. You can view every tap and keystroke on your kids’ devices and even see deleted messages. There’s even a screen recorder function, which is a level of surveillance I wasn’t comfortable with.

The parental dashboard is best viewed on a desktop computer and features every conceivable detail of your child’s online activity. Phone calls, messages, and websites visited are tracked on an at-a-glance graph.

There’s no free option, and short-term plans are extremely expensive. However, long-term plans are among the most affordable options on the market.

7. NetNanny — Uses AI to Block Inappropriate Content

NetNanny’s AI system identifies problematic keywords that might indicate cyberbullying, explicit material, drug use, or other dangerous behaviors, and proactively blocks such content. Rather than blocking entire websites, NetNanny's AI examines the context of specific pages and blocks only those that are inappropriate.

You can also schedule screen time, track location, and receive reports on your child's online activity. I tested its location tracking and received alerts each time my daughter left or entered a specific area. The app also offers monitoring of social media usage and alerts you of any potential risks or red flags.

The app collects browsing data, app usage statistics, and location data. It uses encryption protocols to secure data both in transit and at rest. I could also request data deletion whenever I wanted. Only annual plans are available.

8. Kaspersky Safe Kids — Wide Range of Free Parental Tools for Any Device

The free plan of Kaspersky Safe Kids offers web monitoring to track browsing history and web filtering to block inappropriate websites. You can also set screen time limits to manage device usage and block specific apps to prevent exposure to unsuitable content.

If you need advanced features like location tracking and social media monitoring, you can upgrade to a premium plan. Note that Kaspersky is a Russian company, and its products aren’t available in the US.

This app supports multiple operating systems including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. You can use the free version on only one device, while the premium plan allows you to monitor unlimited devices.

9. Norton Family Premier — Keeps Your Children Focused on Educational Content

By activating Norton Family’s School Time feature, you can block entertainment or non-educational websites while allowing access to educational resources. I also used the Safe Search option to filter out potentially inappropriate results on major search engines.

The app also features time supervision, search supervision, and video supervision tools. You can also track children's real-time location using GPS and view it on a map in your dashboard.

You can install it on desktop and mobile devices. Norton Family doesn’t offer monthly plans, but you can get a 30-day free trial.

10. Microsoft Family Safety — Monitor Microsoft Activity, Including Xbox

Family Safety works across all Microsoft products, including Xbox. I found that especially useful since my daughter is a dedicated gamer. That meant I could restrict her gaming sessions across Xbox, Android, and desktop PC.

While the web filtering options are effective, they only work on Microsoft Edge. Therefore, it’s pretty easy to bypass if your kids have access to other browsers. Similarly, search filtering only works on Bing.

Family Safety is included in Microsoft 365 Home accounts, so if you're a subscriber, you may already have access.

Military-Grade Security Features

DEAL: Save 61% + 30-day money-back guarantee

Editor's Choice for Security

Our Score: 10.0

High-level encryption keeps you safe online

Verified to not collect or share data

Visit ExpressVPN

Quick Comparison Table: Parental Control App Features

Here's how my shortlisted parental control apps compare in terms of price, supported devices, and specific functionalities:

How to Stay Safe While Using Parental Control Apps

Parental control apps collect a vast array of sensitive information, including children’s location data, browsing history, app usage statistics, and even text message and call log details. This can be a gold mine for cybercriminals. If not properly secured, the information these apps gather could be at risk of exposure due to inadequate security practices or vulnerabilities within the app itself.

Data from these apps can leak in several ways: through breaches of unsecured servers, exploitation of software vulnerabilities, or even through simple misconfigurations. Hackers can misuse this leaked data to commit identity theft, stalk individuals, or even sell the information on the dark web.

Using a VPN can significantly reduce the risk of data leakage. A VPN secures your internet connection by encrypting all data sent and received, which makes it extremely difficult for hackers to intercept or steal information.

Military-Grade Security Features

DEAL: Save 61% + 30-day money-back guarantee

Editor's Choice for Security

Our Score: 10.0

High-level encryption keeps you safe online

Verified to not collect or share data

Visit ExpressVPN

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Tips on Choosing the Best Parental Control App for Your Family

To choose the best parental control app, you need to consider several factors to ensure it aligns with your family's specific needs. Here are key criteria to guide your selection:

• Screen time management. Look for apps that offer flexible screen time limits, scheduling, and instant device locking. This lets you set specific rules within your existing routine, like blocking off entertainment apps when your child is studying.
• Device compatibility. Ensure the app is compatible with all your children’s devices and offers consistent management across platforms.
• Web filtering. Make sure the app can block harmful content, filter web searches, and monitor browsing activity.
  App management. Check if it allows blocking, monitoring, or approving specific apps.
• Location tracking. GPS tracking and geofencing are essential for monitoring your child’s whereabouts. Some apps can even detect when your child is driving to ensure their smartphone doesn’t distract them.
• Monitoring and reports. Activity reports, alerts, and notifications provide insights into your child’s online behavior.
• Setup and configuration. Choose an app with a straightforward setup process and intuitive parent dashboard.
• Security and privacy. The app should encrypt data to prevent unauthorized access. Additionally, look for clear data handling policies to ensure compliance with privacy regulations like COPPA and GDPR.
• Customer support. Choose an app that offers accessible customer support via chat, email, or phone.
• Free trial or money-back guarantee. Take advantage of trial or refund periods to test the app’s features and usability before subscribing.
• Flexibility. As your children get older, you may want to adapt your control and oversight accordingly. Therefore, an app with customizable settings is advantageous. Different cultures and regions may have differing norms for parenting, making flexibility necessary.

Best Practices For Keeping Your Kids Safe Online With Parental Control Apps

Parental control apps are powerful tools, but their effectiveness depends on how you use them. To start, configure the app to suit your child’s age, online habits, and pre-existing routines. You can do this by blocking inappropriate content, setting screen time limits, and monitoring app usage. Regularly review the app's reports to spot potential red flags like excessive time spent on certain platforms or interactions with unknown contacts.

These features are designed to provide a safety net, but they shouldn’t replace your role as an involved and informed parent. Make sure the restrictions you set are reasonable and evolve as your child grows, fostering an environment that balances protection with independence. Many apps are also inclusive for children with disabilities and special needs.

Equally important is how you communicate with your child about these tools. Be transparent about why you’re using a parental control app, emphasizing that it’s not about mistrust but ensuring their safety. Invite them to discuss their online experiences openly, creating a space where they feel heard and respected. Some apps even offer advice to help you discuss these topics with your children.

This dialogue builds trust and helps your child understand the risks of the digital world while teaching them to self-regulate their use of technology. Ultimately, pairing technology with trust and guidance is the most effective way to protect your child while preparing them to navigate the online world responsibly.

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

FAQs on the Best Parental Control Apps

What's the best free parental control app?

Qustodio is the best free parental control app. However, the free plan is limited to monitoring just one device, with features like basic app blocking and time limits. If this isn’t enough for you, check out these apps with free trials and money-back guarantees.

Can kids get around parental controls?

Yes, children can sometimes circumvent parental controls. Some methods include disabling browser extensions, using VPNs to bypass web filters, and resetting the device to factory settings. To avoid this, choose a reliable parental control app with strong security measures.

Another option for bypassing the need for parental control apps is to buy your kid a “dumb” phone with minimal internet connectivity and paid minutes. However, this may be impractical if apps are used in your child’s education, as is increasingly the case.

What are the negative effects of parental controls?

Parental controls can contribute to a lack of trust. Overly restrictive controls might hinder the development of healthy decision-making skills in children. Additionally, some parental control apps can put your child’s data at risk. It's important to balance monitoring with trust and use a reputable app that handles children's data responsibly​​.

Will my child know I’m monitoring their device?

That’s up to you. Some of the options listed above can be used without your child’s consent or knowledge. In most cases, though, it’s best to be honest and transparent about your use of parental control apps and their important role in keeping your children safe, both online and in the real world. This can help your children to learn how to navigate the online world knowing that they have a trusted adult to discuss any issues with.

Are parental control apps safe?

Parental control apps are generally safe, but they are not without risks. Concerns include the potential for data breaches and privacy issues, as these apps often handle sensitive information. A VPN can secure your child’s online data, but it’s also important to only use parental control apps that encrypt data during transit and at rest.

Conclusion

The best parental control app should help you manage your child's online activities without risking their privacy. Most apps offer web filtering, screen time management, and app monitoring features. However, it's important to focus on nuances such as customization options, platform compatibility, privacy policies, and alert systems to find the best one for your family's unique needs.