Bing SafeSearch & Parental Controls

Why Bing SafeSearch Matters in 2025

In 2025, children encounter increasing amounts of unfiltered, harmful, and explicit content through search engines. Bing, Microsoft’s search engine, includes SafeSearch functionality that, when configured correctly, becomes an essential tool for protecting children online. While Bing does not have a dedicated child-specific mode like some browsers or platforms, its SafeSearch filters and integration with Microsoft Family Safety make it an effective layer in a broader parental control strategy.

Digital experts such as Papadopoulos (2025) and Milovidov (2025) emphasize that search engine filtering is a crucial first line of defence against inappropriate online content. Setting up these features is vital for creating a safer browsing experience for children.

 

 

Why Parents Should Take Action

When children use Bing for school, gaming, or exploring interests, they may unintentionally access inappropriate images, websites, or search suggestions. Without SafeSearch and Microsoft Family Safety activated, explicit or harmful content can appear in search results. Enabling these controls ensures that parents maintain a safer online environment and promote digital well-being.

 

 

Bing Safety Settings Available

• SafeSearch (Strict, Moderate, Off)
• Microsoft Family Safety Content Filtering
• Search History Monitoring
• Screen Time Limits via Microsoft Family Safety
• Block InPrivate Browsing (Microsoft Edge integration)

 

 

How to Set Up Bing SafeSearch

1. Activate SafeSearch

• Go to http://www.bing.com
• Click on the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top-right corner.
• Select Settings > SafeSearch.
• Choose Strict to filter out adult content from web, image, and video search results.
• Scroll down and click Save.

 

2. Lock SafeSearch Using Microsoft Family Safety

• Visit https://account.microsoft.com/family
• Log in with your Microsoft account.
• Add your child’s profile if not already set up.
• Under Content filters, turn on Filter inappropriate websites.
• Bing will now enforce SafeSearch automatically when your child is logged into their Microsoft account.

 

3. Block InPrivate Browsing (Edge browser)

• Open Microsoft Edge > Go to Settings.
• Navigate to Profiles > Family Safety.
• Select your child’s account > Under Browsing, disable InPrivate Browsing.

 

4. Monitor Bing Search History

• On the Family Safety dashboard, select your child’s profile.
• Under Activity, enable Search history and Web and app activity tracking.
• This will allow you to see what your child is searching on Bing and block access if needed.

 

5. Set Screen Time Limits (Optional)

• On the Family Safety portal, go to Screen Time.
• Set daily limits for device and app usage, including time spent browsing.

 

 

Why These Settings Must Be Enabled

Search engines are often the gateway to everything a child experiences online. A mistyped word or trending topic can expose them to harmful material instantly. By enabling Bing SafeSearch and configuring Microsoft Family Safety tools, parents proactively protect children while encouraging safe exploration. These small steps significantly reduce exposure to disturbing, violent, or explicit content.

 

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 online issues, 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: August 2025