This article describes how to turn SafeSearch on and off and explains its various features.

The Yahoo! SafeSearch feature is designed to filter out explicit, inappropriate and adult-oriented content from Yahoo! Search results.

If you are not signed in to Yahoo!, SafeSearch defaults will be used. If you are logged in to your Yahoo! Account, SafeSearch can be set to one of three modes:

• Strict: Filters out adult websites, videos, and image search results. SafeSearch is "ON."
• Moderate: Filters out adult video and image search results only. SafeSearch is "ON."
• Off: Does not filter search results. SafeSearch is "OFF."

When SafeSearch is "ON," the checkmark-shield icon will appear in green. If the checkmark-shield icon is gray, then one or more levels of protection have been turned off.

Note: If you are unable to turn off SafeSearch, you may need to contact your Internet service provider (ISP) for further details.

SafeSearch lock can be activated when you are signed-in to your Yahoo! Account. This setting prevents anyone other than you from changing your SafeSearch Filter settings. SafeSearch lock works when you are signed-out or if an under-aged user is signed-in. You can click the Learn more button for more detailed information on parental controls.

You can select the preferred setting in the Yahoo! Search Preferences section of Yahoo! Search. You can display the Yahoo! Search Preferences window by selecting Preferences from the "Options" menu to the right of the Search box, or by clicking on the checkmark-shield icon.

Note: While your search results are filtered to remove possible objectionable material, Yahoo! cannot guarantee that all explicit content will be recognized and right of the Search box. By default, SafeSearch is set to "Moderate."