My son uses an iPhone XS running iOS 18.7.2. He is able to bypass all Screen Time app limits by manually changing the date under Settings → General → Date & Time. When he sets the date or time forward or backward, the configured Screen Time restrictions no longer apply. As the parent, I currently have no technical way to prevent him from manually adjusting the device’s date and time, which makes Screen Time ineffective in this scenario.
Earlier iPhone models
Thanks for all the suggestions! Unfortunately, option number 1 doesn’t work in this case, which makes it even more frustrating that Apple still hasn’t closed this loophole. I really appreciate the other tipps 2 and 3, though — they’re very helpful. Will search for third-Party Apps.
1. Immediate Action: Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions on his phone and try to disable the Settings app (or Location Services as a partial block).
2. Best Practical Solution: Consider a reputable third-party parental control app that specifically advertises protection against date/time bypass. They are designed to close these loopholes.
3. Long-term: Know that as he gets older, technical workarounds will evolve. Combining ongoing conversation about healthy tech use with layered technical controls is the most sustainable path.
Bottom line: Apple's native Screen Time is not foolproof for determined teens on older devices. The date/time loophole is its most famous weakness. To close it completely, you'll likely need to look beyond Apples built in tools.
Bypass Screen Time app limits
