Firefox Parental Controls & Safety Settings: 2025 Guide

Why Firefox Safety Settings Matter

Mozilla Firefox remains a widely-used browser for families. However, it lacks built-in robust parental control features. That said, when properly configured using its built-in privacy tools, extensions, and system-level parental controls, Firefox can become a child-friendly and safe browser. In 2025, with increased threats from online tracking, explicit content, and unregulated user-generated sites, it’s more critical than ever to take action.

Academics such as Milovidov (2025) and Livingstone et al. (2025) highlight that browsers are the entry point to the digital world. Proper configuration of safety features helps protect children from harmful content, while promoting digital well-being.

 

 

Why It Matters for Parents

Parents often assume installing security software is enough. But without browser-level restrictions, children can access unfiltered search results and inappropriate material. Firefox offers key features like Enhanced Tracking Protection and extension management. Used correctly, these tools help protect children from exposure to harmful or misleading content while supporting healthy screen habits and digital responsibility.

 

 

Restrictions Available

• Enhanced Tracking Protection
• Adult Content Website Blocking (via Extensions)
• InPrivate Browsing Disabling (via system settings)
• Blocking Add-ons/Extensions
• Locking Access to Settings (via password or OS controls)
• Clearing Browsing History Automatically
• Blocking Pop-Ups and Dangerous Downloads

 

 

How to Set Up Firefox Safety Settings (2025)

1. Enable Enhanced Tracking Protection

• Open Firefox > Click the menu (three lines) > Select Settings.
• Go to Privacy & Security.
• Under Enhanced Tracking Protection, choose Strict.
• This blocks cookies, trackers, fingerprinting, and crypto-miners.

 

2. Install Website Filtering Extensions

• Visit addons.mozilla.org and search for extensions such as:
  • BlockSite (restricts websites)
  • LeechBlock NG (limits time spent on certain sites)
  • uBlock Origin (advanced content blocking)
• Click Add to Firefox.
• Configure keywords or URLs you wish to block in the extension’s settings.

3. Disable Private Browsing (via Windows Group Policy or macOS Terminal)

• Windows:
  • Use the Group Policy Editor to disable Private Browsing by setting policies under Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Mozilla > Firefox.

 

• macOS:
  • Use Terminal: defaults write org.mozilla.firefox DisablePrivateBrowsing -bool TRUE

 

4. Prevent Installation of New Add-ons

• In Settings, scroll to Extensions & Themes.
• Use add-on management extensions like Extension Police to block new installations or changes.

 

5. Lock Firefox Preferences

• Use a system-level tool (such as Microsoft Family Safety or Apple Screen Time) to password-protect changes to Firefox settings.

 

6. Enable Pop-up and Download Protections

• In Settings > Privacy & Security, check:
  • Block pop-up windows
  • Warn you about unwanted and uncommon software
  • Block dangerous downloads

 

8. Automatically Clear History

• Go to Privacy & Security > History.
• Set Firefox will to “Use custom settings for history”.
• Enable Clear history when Firefox closes and click Settings to specify what gets erased.

 

 

Why These Settings Must Be Enabled

A child’s journey through the web begins with the browser. Without safeguards, they may encounter harmful content, misleading ads, or fall victim to phishing. By configuring Firefox using the steps above, parents provide structure while allowing room for safe digital exploration. Combining Firefox safety tools with device-level parental controls ensures children develop healthy habits while staying secure.

 

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