DuckDuckGo Safety Settings & Privacy Controls: 2025 Guide

Why DuckDuckGo Matters for Families in 2025

DuckDuckGo is a privacy-focused search engine that does not track users, making it a preferred choice for families seeking a safer browsing experience. In 2025, as concerns around surveillance advertising and data collection grow, parents are turning to DuckDuckGo for peace of mind. However, without configuring the right settings, children can still be exposed to harmful content.

Experts like Milovidov (2025) and Papadopoulos (2025) emphasize the importance of selecting platforms that respect user privacy and minimize data exposure. While DuckDuckGo offers built-in protections, activating Safe Search and combining it with system-level parental controls is essential for younger users.

 

 

Why Parents Should Configure DuckDuckGo

DuckDuckGo does not collect personal data, show targeted ads, or build user profiles. This makes it safer by default, but not childproof. By enabling Safe Search, disabling image previews, and using DNS-level filters at home, parents can tailor the experience for safer use by children.

 

 

DuckDuckGo Safety Settings Available (2025)

• Safe Search Filtering (Strict/Moderate/Off)
• Disabling Image Previews (via browser extension or script)
• HTTPS Always On
• Global Tracker Blocking
• Disabling Autocomplete for Suggestions
• Enabling Local Content Filtering (via DNS)

 

 

How to Set Up DuckDuckGo Safety Settings

1. Turn On Safe Search Filtering

• Visit https://duckduckgo.com/settings.
• Scroll to Safe Search.
• Select Strict to block explicit content.
• Scroll to the bottom and click Save and Exit.

 

2. Block Image Previews (Optional)

• Use a browser extension such as uBlock Origin to block image content.
• Alternatively, disable image loading via browser settings (e.g., Firefox > Preferences > Content > Uncheck “Load images automatically”).

 

3. Enable HTTPS Protection

• DuckDuckGo automatically enables HTTPS by default. Confirm by visiting:
  • https://duckduckgo.com/settings
  • Ensure HTTPS Everywhere is toggled ON.

 

4. Use Tracker Blocking Extensions

• Install DuckDuckGo Privacy Essentials on the browser.
• This blocks trackers, forces encrypted connections, and provides privacy scores.

 

5. Filter Content at the DNS Level (Advanced)

• Configure home Wi-Fi to use DNS providers that block adult content:
  • CleanBrowsing Family Filter
  • OpenDNS Family Shield
• Visit your router’s admin panel > DNS Settings > Input filter DNS addresses.

 

6. Disable Autocomplete Suggestions

• In DuckDuckGo Settings, find Autocomplete.
• Set to Off to reduce exposure to inappropriate or unintended search suggestions.

 

 

Why These Settings Must Be Enabled

Search engines shape how children learn, explore, and engage online. Without the right filters, even privacy-first tools like DuckDuckGo may expose users to adult or misleading content. Parents must actively configure settings to ensure safety. Used with broader parental controls and honest conversations about online behaviour, DuckDuckGo can be a valuable tool for digital responsibility.

 

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