Copyright Tom's Guide

Surfshark, one of the best VPNs on the market, has introduced a new web content blocker designed to help families manage what websites can be accessed, without monitoring or tracking anyone's activity. The VPN provider says the feature aims to create a safer, more respectful online environment by allowing users to filter web content by category, lock settings with two-factor authentication (2FA), and protect vulnerable users from malicious or inappropriate sites. According to Justas Pukys, Surfshark's Senior Product Manager, the new tool represents a shift from traditional parental control systems, which often rely on monitoring user behavior. "No matter whether you want to protect your children, help an elderly relative avoid fraud, or maintain a shared home without disruption, it is important to have clear, fair boundaries that are actually applied," said Pukys. "That's why we created a web content blocker, so people can turn control into care without tracking involved." How does Surfshark's web content blocker work? Unlike conventional tracking or filtering tools, Surfshark's approach focuses on blocking unwanted content rather than collecting user data. Users can choose from a set of predefined content categories, apply them to specific devices or profiles, and lock the configuration for added security. The company says the feature can help households prevent accidental exposure to unsafe or inappropriate content while preserving personal privacy; an approach that aligns with Surfshark's broader focus on data protection and transparency. To enable this feature, users need to install the Surfshark app on their devices, sign in with the same account, and activate the web content blocker under the app's settings. The system allows customization for each connected device, letting families select which types of sites to block and apply additional safeguards using 2FA.