At some point while using this feature, you may receive an error message that says you can’t take a screenshot due to security policy. This happens when you attempt to take a screenshot and the open app immediately blocks it. This guide will explain the most common reasons why the screenshot blocked error occurs and suggest some methods to bypass the restriction. Read on to learn more.
“Can’t Take a Screenshot Due to Security Policy” — Most Common Reasons
This policy is mainly employed by online banking and investment apps. Since these apps store so much of your confidential information—credit or debit card numbers, security codes, passwords, funds in your account, value of investments, etc.—app developers are tasked with ensuring a high level of privacy for their users. Hence, screenshots are not allowed.
1 “Can’t Take a Screenshot Due to Security Policy” — Most Common Reasons2 How to Bypass the “Can’t Take a Screenshot Due to Security Policy” Error2.1 2.2 Fix #1: Use Third-Party Screenshot Apps2.3 2.4 Fix #2: Remove Your Restricted Account2.5 2.6 Fix #3: Allow Media Storage Permissions2.7 2.8 Fix #4: Use Google Assistant3 4 Final Thoughts
Also, some instant messaging apps—such as WhatsApp—can have a no-screenshot policy for privacy reasons. Another reason is you might receive a screenshot blocked error is you are using Google Chrome’s Incognito Mode. You cannot take screenshots when viewing a page Incognito. Open the webpage in a regular Chrome window, and you’ll be able to take a screenshot.
How to Bypass the “Can’t Take a Screenshot Due to Security Policy” Error
While this policy is in place for a reason, you can still bypass it to take a screenshot of a screenshot-restricted app on your Android phone. Below are some fixes you can try using to circumvent this restriction on certain apps. Review each solution and see which is the most effective for you.
Fix #1: Use Third-Party Screenshot Apps
If regular screenshots are getting blocked by an app on your phone due to their screenshot policy, try taking a screenshot using a third-party screenshot app. These apps function separately from the built-in screenshot feature, so they might work. However, make sure to only use apps from the Google Play Store. Avoid downloading unknown apps, as they can store and use your saved information illegally.
Fix #2: Remove Your Restricted Account
If your Android device was supplied by your employer or school, you may be logged in with a restricted account that could have a screenshot-blocking feature enabled. You can try removing your company or school account from your phone first. To remove your company/school account on your Android phone, follow these steps: Now, try accessing the app and see if you can take screenshots without getting blocked.
Fix #3: Allow Media Storage Permissions
If an app won’t save screenshots directly on your phone’s internal storage, you can save them on your inserted SD card instead. However, you’ll need to allow this permission first. To allow media storage permissions on your Android phone, follow these steps:
Fix #4: Use Google Assistant
If none of above methods work, you can try taking a screenshot using Google Assistant. First, open the app you want to take a screenshot of. Then say, “Ok, Google,” followed by, “Take a screenshot.” Alternatively, you can try saying, “Ok, Google” and then tapping Quick Questions > Share Screenshot. If you have difficulty taking a screenshot via Google Assistant, ensure that the screen context feature is enabled. To do this, follow the steps below:
Final Thoughts
Taking screenshots is one of the quickest ways to save information on your Android phone. However, this feature is often restricted by high-security apps, so your device may display the “can’t take a screenshot due to security policy” error if you attempt to take one. Hopefully, this guide helps you understand why some apps have a no-screenshot policy and how you can bypass it.
