URL Filter - blocked web page behaviour

1) Blocked page UX

When a URL is blocked, the browser typically shows a generic error like “"Safari cannot open the page because it couldn’t load any data,” with no indication that the page was blocked by a policy. Is there any plan to add an API that allows developers to present a custom “blocked” page or remediation action, similar to NEFilterControlProvider’s remediationMap?

Even a minimal hook (custom HTML, deep link, or support URL) would make the experience clearer for users.

2) Cross‑app link‑opening behavior

With a block rule in place, direct navigation in Safari is blocked as expected. However, tapping the same URL in a messaging app (e.g., WhatsApp) opens Safari - and the page loads, not blocked.

Repro steps: Configure a URL Filter extension that blocks https://example.com.

Case A: Open a browser and type the URL in the address bar → blocked (expected).

Case B: Tap the same URL in WhatsApp (or another messenger) → a browser opens and the page loads (unexpected).

iOS version - 26.0

Answered by DTS Engineer in 860508022

I recommend that you report both of these via Feedback Assistant:

  • Your first issue seems like a reasonable enhancement request.
  • Your second issue seems like a bug.

See Bug Reporting: How and Why? for general advice on how to file bugs effectively.

Please post your bug numbers, just for the record.

Share and Enjoy

Quinn “The Eskimo!” @ Developer Technical Support @ Apple
let myEmail = "eskimo" + "1" + "@" + "apple.com"

I recommend that you report both of these via Feedback Assistant:

  • Your first issue seems like a reasonable enhancement request.
  • Your second issue seems like a bug.

See Bug Reporting: How and Why? for general advice on how to file bugs effectively.

Please post your bug numbers, just for the record.

Share and Enjoy

Quinn “The Eskimo!” @ Developer Technical Support @ Apple
let myEmail = "eskimo" + "1" + "@" + "apple.com"

URL Filter - blocked web page behaviour
 
 
Q