Blocking categories - Amazon WorkSpaces Secure Browser

Blocking categories

In addition to blocking specific URLs, you can also automatically block groups of URLs based on content categories. This is useful for organizations that need comprehensive coverage against various types of inappropriate or risky content without having to manually identify and block individual sites.

In your AWS console, under URL Filtering:

  • Navigate to Blocked categories and click Add categories

  • Select any category you want to block

  • You can exceptions to these categories by adding URLs to the Allow List. For this click Add URL and enter the entry/ies of the URLs you want to allow. Even if they are including in the categories, end users will be able to visit the URLs.

  • Click Save

The following categories can be selected. You can select one, many, or all categories.

Available filtering categories
Theme Category Description
Adult & Inappropriate Content Nudity Sites containing non-sexual nude imagery or artwork.
Adult & Inappropriate Content Pornography Sites with explicit sexual content or provocative nude material.
Adult & Inappropriate Content Sex Education Age-appropriate, medically-reviewed health and sexuality resources.
Adult & Inappropriate Content Tasteless Content inappropriate for children not covered by other categories.
Communication and Social Chat Real-time group and private messaging platforms.
Communication and Social Instant Messaging Private messaging services.
Communication and Social Professional Network Business-focused relationship building platforms.
Communication and Social Social Networking User interaction platforms for sharing personal content and experiences.
Communication and Social Web-based Email Browser-accessible messaging services, including e-cards and greeting systems.
Entertainment Games Recreational gaming resources, including video games, puzzles, and non-gambling activities.
Entertainment Image Sharing Visual content platforms offering hosting, search, and sharing capabilities.
Entertainment Peer To Peer File sharing application providers and related software tools.
Harmful & Illegal Content Criminal Activity Instructions or materials promoting illegal acts.
Harmful & Illegal Content Hacking Unauthorized system access tools and network exploitation resources.
Harmful & Illegal Content Illegal Drug Content promoting recreational drug use or substance abuse.
Harmful & Illegal Content Illegal Software Unauthorized copyrighted material and malicious software distribution.
Harmful & Illegal Content Violence Content promoting physical harm or displaying graphic material.
Harmful & Illegal Content Weapons Legitimate sporting and recreational firearm use resources.
High-risk Behaviors Cults Non-mainstream spiritual and metaphysical content.
High-risk Behaviors Gambling Betting-related activities and information.
High-risk Behaviors Hate and Intolerance Content promoting bias against protected characteristics.
High-risk Behaviors School Cheating Unauthorized academic assistance and homework completion services.
High-risk Behaviors Self Harm Content promoting or discussing self-destructive behaviors.
Technology & AI Download Sites Software, application, and digital asset hosting platforms.
Technology & AI Generative AI AI and machine learning technology resources.
Technology & AI Parked Domains Minimal content domains used for advertising or domain sales.
Technology & AI Streaming Media and Downloads Audio/video content platforms including music, videos, and internet radio.