How to block pop-ups in Safari on an iPhone
2 min read · 4 steps · Updated 2 October 2026
Open Settings, tap Apps, tap Safari and switch on Block Pop-ups. Switch on Fraudulent Website Warning in the same list. If a pop-up will not close, do not tap its buttons. Tap the address bar and go to another page.
Pop-ups are extra windows or messages that a website opens by itself. Some are harmless. Others imitate a virus warning or a prize to make you tap. Safari can block most of them.
These screens are from iOS 26 on an iPhone 17. On older versions the rows are in the same place, with a slightly different look.
Step by step
Open Settings and tap Apps
Apps is near the bottom of the main Settings list.
Tap Safari
The apps are in alphabetical order.
Switch on Block Pop-ups
It is in the General section of the Safari settings.
Switch on Fraudulent Website Warning
Scroll down to Privacy & Security. Safari then warns you before it opens a site that is known for fraud.
Good to know
If a pop-up fills the screen and will not go away, do not tap OK, Close or any button inside it. Tap the address bar, type another address or a search word, and leave the page. Then close the tab.
A message in the browser that says your iPhone has a virus is an advert. A website cannot scan your phone.
Some honest websites need pop-ups, for example a bank that opens a statement in a new window. If something does not open, switch Block Pop-ups off for a moment and on again afterwards.
Keep iOS up to date. Apple says its updates include security improvements that help control pop-ups.
To clean up after a bad site: how to clear Safari history and website data on iPhone.
In short: Settings, Apps, Safari, Block Pop-ups on, Fraudulent Website Warning on.
- Apple Support: Block pop-up ads and windows in Safari
Rules and prices change. Check the official source before you act.