Google Family Link bug blocks outgoing calls, but these workarounds might help

Source: Android Authority

TL;DR

• A reported Google Family Link bug is blocking outgoing calls on supervised devices, while incoming calls and messages still work normally.
• Some users have found temporary workarounds, such as toggling supervision on and off, but these fixes are inconsistent and not available for accounts under 13.
• The issue raises safety concerns because it may prevent emergency calls. Google is reportedly aware of the problem and is working on a fix.

The problem

Google’s Family Link is intended to give parents control over how their kids use smartphones. Recently, a growing number of parents have reported that children cannot make outgoing calls on supervised devices.

The issue first surfaced in a Reddit post by user Ednolbbmud, who shared a screenshot of the error message:

“Calls can’t be placed by System Parental controls. Try using a different call redirecting app or contacting the developer for help.”

In the reported case, the children’s Samsung Galaxy A16 phones could still receive calls and messages, but outgoing calls were completely blocked.

Reported experiences

Other parents have posted similar accounts, suggesting the bug is widespread rather than an isolated glitch. One parent described a temporary fix by turning supervision off and then back on through the Family Link app:

1. Open the Family Link app and select the child’s profile.
2. Go to Account settings.
3. Manually stop supervision, then re‑enable it.

Limitations of the workaround

• Accounts under 13 cannot toggle supervision off, leaving those families without this option.
• Some users resort to deleting the account and creating a new one, which is cumbersome and not guaranteed to work.
• Results are inconsistent: a few report success, while many see the problem persist regardless of the steps taken.

The same complaint appears on Google’s support forums: Can’t make calls with Family Link restrictions. One parent highlighted the most serious consequence—inability to dial emergency services.

Safety concerns

Blocking outgoing calls can prevent children from reaching emergency services, turning a parental‑control inconvenience into a potential safety hazard. The lack of a reliable fix forces parents to rely on trial‑and‑error solutions for a basic phone function.

Google’s response

A Reddit commenter noted that Google Support is aware of the issue and is working on a fix. No official timeline has been provided, but the community hopes for a prompt resolution.