BBC iPlayer Safety Settings: A Parent’s Guide

Welcome to Children of the Digital Age’s guide to BBC iPlayer Safety Settings. These controls are available for using the BBC iPlayer platform in a web browser on digital devices and for the iPlayer App itself. Parents should note that these safety settings must be set up on each device individually. This ensures consistent protection across all viewing points.

 

Why BBC iPlayer Safety Settings Are Essential

BBC iPlayer offers a vast library of programmes, from educational content to entertainment. While much of it is family-friendly, some shows may contain mature themes, strong language, or violence. Without proper parental controls, children could inadvertently access content unsuitable for their age. Enabling these settings ensures a safer viewing experience. It allows parents to manage what their children can watch, providing peace of mind and supporting age-appropriate media consumption.

 

Key Restrictions Available on BBC iPlayer

The primary restriction available on BBC iPlayer focuses on:

• Inappropriate Content: The Parental Guidance Lock helps you filter and restrict access to content flagged as unsuitable for younger viewers.

 

Turning on Parental Controls for BBC iPlayer

Setting up the Parental Guidance Lock requires a simple four-digit PIN code. You will need this code whenever anyone tries to access age-restricted content.

 

For Web Browsers

To activate the Parental Guidance Lock in a web browser, go to the BBC iPlayer website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer. Scroll to the bottom of the page and select Parental Guidance, or use the direct link: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/guidance.

On the Parental Controls / Parental Guidance page, select Lock now. You will need to tick the “I am aged 16 or over” option. Click Continue. Then, select Turn on PG Lock. You will be prompted to create a 4-digit PIN code. Enter your chosen PIN. Finally, click Save. This 4-digit PIN code will now be required whenever access is sought for age-restricted content on that specific browser.

 

For the BBC iPlayer App (Mobile/Tablet)

To set up Parental Controls on the BBC iPlayer App for smartphones or tablets, first open the iPlayer App. Select Menu, then Settings, and then Parental Guidance. You will be prompted to enter a four-digit PIN number. This is the same PIN you set up or a new one if this is the first device you’re securing.

In the event you forget the four-digit PIN number, you will be prompted to enter a Secret question and a Secret answer. Make sure to choose something memorable and secure. Select Activate to save your four-digit PIN number. The four-digit PIN number will be used to confirm the person accessing content is over 16 years old.

 

For the BBC iPlayer App on Smart TVs

Setting up Parental Controls on your Smart TV’s BBC iPlayer App is a similar process. First, open the BBC iPlayer App on your Smart TV. Navigate to Settings, then select Settings & Help. Choose Parental Guidance.

Select Set up Parental Guidance. You will need to confirm you are aged 16 or over. When prompted, create a four-digit PIN number. Select OK and confirm the four-digit PIN number by entering it again. You will then be prompted to select a Security Question. Select OK and confirm the answer to the Secret Question when prompted. Once the “Set Up Complete” message appears, select Close to return to BBC iPlayer. The PIN is now active for that TV.

 

Understanding the Parental Guidance Lock

The Parental Guidance Lock is designed to prevent unintended viewing of mature content. When activated, any programme with a “Guidance” label (indicating content like strong language, violence, or mature themes) will require the 4-digit PIN before it can be played. This applies to both live and on-demand content.

Remember, this lock is device-specific. If you set it up on your laptop’s browser, it won’t automatically apply to your tablet app or your Smart TV app. You must repeat the setup process on each individual device your child might use to access BBC iPlayer.

 

Special Considerations: BBC iPlayer Kids

For a completely tailored and safe experience for younger children, consider using the dedicated BBC iPlayer Kids app. This app features content specifically curated for children and offers a child-friendly interface, automatically filtering out content meant for older audiences. It can be a great alternative for very young viewers.

By implementing these straightforward safety settings, you can ensure that children in your household enjoy BBC iPlayer content that is appropriate for their age, creating a safer digital entertainment environment.

 

Partner with Children of the Digital Age for Enhanced Online Safety

At Children of the Digital Age, we’re deeply committed to supporting parents as they navigate the ever-evolving landscape of digital parenting. We understand that ensuring your child’s online safety and digital well-being is a top priority. 

 

For broader educational resources, engaging workshops, or personalized advice on managing screen time and addressing problematic gaming, don’t hesitate to contact Children of the Digital Age. We’re here to offer expert guidance, ensuring your children enjoy the digital world safely and responsibly. Your child’s digital well-being and online safety remain our utmost priority.

 

© 2025 Children of the Digital Age. All rights reserved. | Last Updated: July 2025