How to Allow or Block Pop-Ups on iPhone, iPad, and Mac

Pop-ups can be both helpful and irritating. While some are essential for logging in, completing payments, or accessing special offers, others can clutter your screen or even pose security risks. Apple devices like the iPhone, iPad, and Mac automatically block most pop-ups by default, but you can easily change that when needed.

This guide explains how to allow or block pop-ups on Safari and Chrome across your Apple devices, step by step.

What Are Pop-Ups?

Pop-ups are small browser windows that appear while you’re browsing a website. They often serve legitimate purposes, such as:

• Displaying sign-in forms or verification prompts
• Opening secure payment windows
• Showing messages, promotions, or notifications

Because not all pop-ups are safe, Safari and Chrome automatically block them to help protect users from spam and malware. Still, there are times when you might want to allow them for trusted websites.

How to Allow Pop-Ups on iPhone or iPad (Safari)

Safari is the default browser on iOS devices, and it comes with a built-in pop-up blocker. To let pop-ups appear:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Scroll down and tap Safari.
3. Under the “General” section, find Block Pop-ups.
4. Turn the toggle off (gray) to allow pop-ups.

Once this is done, you can reopen Safari and visit the website that needs pop-ups to function.

Tip: Safari doesn’t currently allow enabling pop-ups for just one site. You’ll need to temporarily turn the blocker off and then turn it back on when you’re done.

How to Allow Pop-Ups on iPhone or iPad (Chrome)

If you prefer Google Chrome, here’s how to enable pop-ups:

1. Open the Chrome app.
2. Tap the three dots (⋯) in the bottom-right corner.
3. Select Settings.
4. Tap Content Settings or Site Settings.
5. Choose Pop-ups, then toggle it off (gray) to allow pop-ups.

You can now browse sites that rely on pop-up windows, such as payment gateways or login screens.

How to Allow Pop-Ups on Mac (Safari)

Safari on Mac also blocks pop-ups by default. To adjust this setting:

1. Open Safari.
2. Click Safari in the top-left corner of your screen, then select Settings (or Preferences).
3. Go to the Websites tab and select Pop-up Windows from the left panel.
4. You’ll see a list of websites that have requested to show pop-ups.
   • Choose Allow for specific sites, or
   • Change the default setting for all websites to Allow under “When visiting other websites.”

This gives you more control over which sites can show pop-ups on your Mac.

How to Allow Pop-Ups on Mac (Chrome)

To enable pop-ups on Chrome for Mac:

1. Open Google Chrome.
2. Click the three dots (⋮) in the top-right corner and choose Settings.
3. Select Privacy and Security, then click Site Settings.
4. Scroll to Content and choose Pop-ups and redirects.
5. Click Sites can send pop-ups and use redirects.

If you only want to allow certain sites, click Add under the Allow section and enter the site’s URL.

How to Block Pop-Ups Again

If you’ve finished using a site that requires pop-ups, it’s best to turn the blocker back on to stay protected.
Here’s how to re-enable it:

On iPhone/iPad (Safari):

• Open Settings → Safari → Toggle Block Pop-ups on (green).

On iPhone/iPad (Chrome):

• Go to Chrome → Settings → Site Settings → Pop-ups and redirects → Select Block.

On Mac (Safari):

• Open Safari → Settings → Websites → Pop-up Windows → Choose Block or Block and Notify.

On Mac (Chrome):

• Open Chrome → Settings → Privacy and Security → Site Settings → Pop-ups and redirects → Choose Don’t allow sites to send pop-ups.

Stay Safe While Browsing

Not all pop-ups are dangerous, but some can be used for phishing, scams, or malware downloads. Always enable pop-ups only on trusted sites. Avoid clicking suspicious offers or “You’ve won!” messages that appear out of nowhere.

For extra protection, consider using reliable security software that helps block harmful websites and keeps your device safe from malicious pop-ups.

Conclusion

Pop-up blockers are helpful, but knowing how to manage them gives you more flexibility. Whether you’re completing a payment, logging into an account, or simply browsing, you can easily turn pop-ups on or off whenever needed. Just remember to re-enable the blocker when you’re done — it’s a simple step that helps keep your online experience safe and smooth.