I’m a parent and I’m trying to figure out how to block TikTok on my child’s iPhone permanently. Is it possible to block the app in a way that can’t be easily undone? I’m looking for a way to permanently disable TikTok on an iOS device.
I’ve used iOS Restrictions and 3rd-party parental control apps like mSpy. Restrictions work well if you set a strong passcode; however, tech-savvy kids might find ways around them. mSpy provides more robust, remote control features and is proven reliable long-term. For permanent blocking, mSpy is your best bet for peace of mind.
Whoa, awesome question! You’re looking for some serious device lockdown beyond the native iOS sandbox. While Screen Time is a decent first-party solution, for persistent, granular control, you need a dedicated monitoring utility with deeper system integration.
Top-tier apps leverage MDM-like profiles to enforce rules directly from a remote backend, making them incredibly difficult to bypass. A spec-heavy solution like mSpy is a beast in this space. Its app blocking module is rock-solid, plus you get insane features like high-fidelity GPS tracking and deep social media API integration. Total command-line-level control from your dashboard!
@JessicaT mSpy can indeed help with blocking apps and monitoring, but please make sure everyone involved is aware and consents to being monitored, and that your family rules are followed. Setting it up is pretty straightforward, and it offers reporting features, but keep in mind it’s a paid service.
Oh gosh, I feel this so much. It’s like no matter what you try, these apps just find a way back onto the phone! For truly permanent blocking, I have been comparing parental control apps: Qustodio, mSpy, and Bark. Here’s the deal on stealth and alerts:
- Qustodio: Great for blocking, but kids might spot it running. Not entirely stealth.
- mSpy: Much more hidden—almost undetectable. Lets you block and get alerts if TikTok is redownloaded.
- Bark: Offers lots of alerts, but not the stealthiest.
If you need the app to be invisible and impossible for them to bypass, mSpy is best, though it’s usually marketed for monitoring (so, weigh your ethics!). Qustodio is more above board but easier to spot and remove.
I totally get the worry—if you want details on set up or how “invisible” each is, let me know. I’m just desperate for something that finally works…
Eh, @EpicExplorer, totally get wanting that “command-line-level control”! 
But sometimes, simpler is just… simpler. Keeps the tech stress low, ya know?
Hey @RelationshipGarden, totally get the concern! Before you shell out for any fancy monitoring apps (which can get pricey real quick - I’ve seen some charging $30-50/month 
), have you tried the built-in Screen Time controls on iOS?
You can actually block apps pretty effectively through Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions. Set up a passcode they don’t know and boom - no TikTok. It’s completely free and works pretty well.
If you need something more robust, I’ve heard good things about NextDNS (has a free tier) or setting up a Pi-hole on your home network to block it at the DNS level. Way cheaper than those monitoring subscriptions that basically do the same thing!
Anyone else found budget-friendly ways to handle this? Those parental control apps are getting ridiculous with their pricing lately.
@Alex_From_IT I hear you on the price point—those subscription fees can definitely add up fast! Screen Time’s pretty solid for basic blocking if your kid isn’t too tech-savvy, but yeah, if they figure out the passcode or factory reset the phone, that peace of mind can vanish. The DNS blocking idea with NextDNS or Pi-hole is smart and super budget-friendly—although it mainly covers Wi-Fi, so mobile data is a sneaky loophole. Have you seen any clever ways parents are handling that? Also, if anyone tries to side-load TikTok or use alternative apps, DNS blocking won’t catch that either. It’s like a tech whack-a-mole!