Microsoft’s Family Safety feature, designed to protect children from inappropriate online content, has encountered an unexpected hiccup: it appears to be inadvertently blocking access to Google’s Chrome browser. This issue first came to light on June 3, when a user reported persistent crashes while attempting to use Chrome, despite efforts to restart their computer and reinstall the browser. The user expressed frustration, noting that the system repeatedly indicated “no update available.”
This glitch primarily affects Windows computers configured with the Family Safety feature, which is intended to help parents manage their children’s screen time and monitor online activities. Alongside the desktop functionality, Microsoft also offers a Family Safety app for mobile devices, enhancing parental controls on the go. However, a representative from Microsoft has yet to provide a statement regarding this issue.
What to do if your Chrome is crashing because of this bug
Fortunately, there are a couple of workarounds that users can employ to regain access to Chrome:
- Visit https://familysafety.microsoft.com or open the Family Safety mobile app.
- Select your child’s profile.
- Navigate to the Windows tab, then to Apps & Games, and unblock Chrome. Alternatively, you could disable the “filter inappropriate websites” option under the Edge tab; however, this approach undermines the Family Safety feature’s purpose, potentially exposing your child to adult content.
Additionally, The Verge has highlighted another creative solution. Some users have found success by renaming the Chrome executable file—changing it to something like “Chrome1″—which allows the browser to function without interference from the Family Safety feature.
