How to disable Safari auto-launching apps...?

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How to disable Safari auto-launching apps...?

If I go to Facebook.com in Safari on my iPad (OS v14.4), it automatically launches the FB app. I am promoted with the option to cancel (and I try) but it launches the app anyway. I’ve seen the same when clicking links, such as for Amazon affiliate links, and those don’t even prompt you with the option to cancel.

I do not want ANY browser to EVER launch an app based simply on typing/feeding/clicking an URL. The potential security issue here is pretty obvious. Short of removing the app, is there any way to prevent this behavior?

iPad, iPadOS 14

Posted on Feb 17, 2021 6:56 PM

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Answer 1

Feb 23, 2021 6:37 AM in response to JNerlinger

Hi JNerlinger,

Thanks for using Apple Support Communities. We understand that some apps automatically open when using Safari.

This seems like it can be a behavior related to a previously selected option when navigating to the websites via Safari instead of using the application. If that's the case, let's see if clearing your history and cookies from Safari helps: Clear the history and cookies from Safari on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch

If the behavior continues, let's see if turning off the suggestion to open the app helps. To do this, navigate to Settings > Facebook > Siri & Search, and turn off Suggest App: Change Siri settings on iPad. You can do this for other apps this may be happening with as well, such as Amazon.

Reply back to this post if you need continued support on this topic.

Take care.

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How to disable Safari auto-launching apps...?

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