Last Updated on Janurary, 01, 2026
Effective Date: 01.01.2026
These Terms of Service (“Terms”) govern your access to and use of Hardstop, Hardstop LLC, and Try Hardstop (collectively, “Hardstop”, “we”, “us”, or “our”). By purchasing, accessing, or using Hardstop, you agree to be legally bound by these Terms. If you do not agree, you must not use the service.
1. Intended Use & Age Requirment
Adults Only: Hardstop is intended exclusively for use by individuals 18 years of age or older. By using Hardstop, you represent and warrant that you are at least 18 years old.
Not a Parental Control Service: Hardstop is designed as a voluntary accountability tool for adults managing their own devices.
It is NOT:
A parental control application
Designed for monitoring minors
Intended for installation on devices used by individuals under 18
A tool for managing others' devices
Personal Accountability: Hardstop is designed for adults who voluntarily choose accountability tools for personal digital wellness goals. You must be installing Hardstop on your own device(s) for your own use.
Prohibition on Minor Use: You may not:
Install Hardstop on devices primarily used by minors
Use Hardstop as a parental control tool
Create accounts on behalf of individuals under 18
Represent yourself as 18+ if you are not
Account Termination: Hardstop reserves the right to immediately terminate accounts if we determine the service is being used on devices belonging to minors, for parental control purposes, or by individuals under 18.
2. Nature of the Service
Hardstop is a voluntary digital accountability service designed for adults (18+) seeking to maintain healthy digital boundaries for personal wellness goals.
How It Works: Hardstop uses DNS-level content filtering with password-protected configuration controls to block access to adult content. The service includes:
Configuration profiles installed at the device or system level
DNS-based filtering that blocks adult content domains
Password custody during your pre-selected "cooling off period"
Network-level controls to prevent filtering bypass
24/7 support for password release and account management
Service Features: This may include, but is not limited to:
DNS-based filtering and enforcement
MDM enforcement
Configuration profiles that cannot be removed without password access
Content and website controls
Network configuration management
VPN and proxy blocking (where technically feasible)
Voluntary Participation:
You are enrolling yourself on your own device(s)
This is a personal accountability tool, not a monitoring service
You maintain control by choosing your cooling off period
You can request early access or cancel at any time
What Hardstop Blocks:
Adult content domains at the DNS level
Access to configuration removal without password
VPN and proxy services that could bypass filtering (on supported platforms)
Additional sites you specifically request to block (optional)
Reddit & X media (images & video) are blocked in app & browser.
What Hardstop Does NOT Block:
General internet access
Reddit and X apps and browser access
Productivity tools and work applications
News, education, or other legitimate content
Emergency services or crisis resources
Communication tools (email, messaging, video calls)
Service Impact: The service is intentional by design and may significantly alter device functionality for its intended purpose: supporting your personal accountability goals.
3. User Consent and Authorisation
By using Hardstop, you expressly and irrevocably authorize Hardstop to:
Install and manage configuration profiles on your device
Enforce DNS-level content filtering
Enforce MDM-level protection
Enforce network, application, and system-level controls
Maintain administrative authority over filtering configurations
Hold your configuration password for your selected cooling off period
Modify controls in accordance with your requests and the program structure
Own Device Requirement: You represent and warrant that:
You are installing Hardstop on your own device(s) for your own personal use
You are the legal owner or have explicit authorization to manage the device
You are not installing this on behalf of another person (including minors)
You have full authority to grant the permissions required
Password Control: You acknowledge and agree that:
Configuration passwords are held by Hardstop during your cooling off period
You cannot access or remove configurations without this password
Some controls may not be adjustable or removable by you during the active service period
Requesting your password begins a waiting period (your cooling off period) unless an emergency (see emergency section below)
4. Voluntary Participation
You confirm that:
You are 18 years of age or older
You are enrolling yourself voluntarily for your own personal accountability
You understand the nature and impact of device-level controls
You are the legal owner or authorized user of the device(s)
You have full authority to grant the permissions required
This is your personal choice to support your own digital wellness goals
Not Imposed by Others: You confirm that Hardstop is:
Not imposed by a parent, guardian, or family member
Not imposed by an employer or institution
Not court-mandated or legally required
Your own voluntary decision for personal accountability
Your Autonomy: While Hardstop creates intentional friction through cooling off periods, you maintain ultimate control:
You choose your cooling off period duration
You can request your password at any time
You can request early access for emergencies or special circumstances
You can cancel your subscription at any time
We respect your autonomy and will work with you to balance your immediate needs with your stated long-term goals
5. Acknowledgement of Service Impact
You understand and accept that Hardstop may:
Limit access to websites, applications, or services you later decide you want
Prevent installation or removal of certain applications
Constrain browser choice or functionality
Limit access to system settings or network behavior
Block VPN or proxy services that could bypass filtering
Interfere with entertainment, social, or non-essential services
Require support involvement and waiting periods to make adjustments
Intentional Design: These outcomes are an intentional part of the accountability service and are not considered defects or service failures. The purpose is to create deliberate friction between impulse and action, supporting your personal goals.
Emergency Access: If you need immediate access due to emergency circumstances, contact emergency support (see Section 11).
Cooling Off Period and Password Management
Purpose: The "cooling off period" is the cornerstone of Hardstop's accountability model. It creates intentional friction and time for reflection between the impulse to disable filtering and the ability to do so.
How It Works:
Selection: When you sign up, you choose your cooling off period duration
Examples: 24 hours, 48 hours, 3 days, 7 days, or custom duration
This is the minimum time you must wait after requesting your password
Password Custody: Hardstop holds your configuration password during this period
You cannot remove or disable filtering without this password
The password is unique to your configuration
Request Process: To receive your password:
Submit a request via email to info@tryhardstop.com
Wait until your cooling off period expires
Receive password via email to your registered address
Request Timeline:
You may request your password at any time
Standard processing: Password delivered 24 business hours after your cooling off period expires
Example: If you have a 7-day cooling off period:
Day 0: You request password
Day 7: Cooling off period expires or you request password
Day 8: Password delivered (24 hrs after expiration)
Changing Your Cooling Off Period:
You may change your cooling off period at any time via contacting us
New cooling off periods apply to future password requests
Existing cooling off periods in progress are not affected by changes
Early Access Requests: You may request early access before your cooling off period expires:
Emergency situations: Medical emergency, mental health crisis, safety concerns
Response time: Within 2 hours during business hours
Contact: info@tryhardstop.com
Special circumstances: Unexpected work requirements, travel, family emergency
Response time: Within 24 business hours
Contact: info@tryhardstop.com
Our Approach to Early Access: We respect that circumstances change and life happens. There is no judgment in requesting early access. We aim to balance your immediate needs with your stated accountability goals, always prioritizing your safety and wellbeing.
Password Delivery:
Passwords are sent to your registered email address only
You are responsible for maintaining access to this email
Lost email access may delay password delivery
We cannot deliver passwords via phone, text, or alternative email addresses for security reasons
Important Notes:
The cooling off period is designed to help you pause and reconsider impulsive decisions
It is not designed to trap you or prevent legitimate access needs
We are here to support your goals, not to control you
You can cancel your subscription at any time (though this does not immediately remove configurations)
7. No Guarantee of Outcomes
Hardstop does not guarantee:
Behavioral change
Addiction recovery
Mental health outcomes
Productivity improvements
Relationship improvements
Complete prevention of circumvention
100% blocking effectiveness
Tool, Not Treatment: Hardstop is a tool that supports personal accountability through technological barriers and intentional friction. It is not:
A substitute for therapy or professional treatment
A cure for addiction or compulsive behaviors
A guarantee of personal transformation
Medical or mental health treatment
Your Responsibility: Outcomes depend on your individual behavior, commitment, and broader support systems. Hardstop is most effective as part of a comprehensive approach to digital wellness that may include professional support, community accountability, and personal development work.
8. Circumvention and Interference
You agree not to:
Attempt to bypass, disable, or interfere with filtering controls
Factory reset devices to evade enforcement without first requesting your password
Use VPNs, proxies, or exploits to defeat network-level controls
Attempt to remove profiles or configurations without authorization
Share methods of circumvention with other users
Reverse engineer Hardstop's filtering mechanisms
Consequences: Such actions may result in:
Suspension of support services
Termination of service without refund
Forfeiture of remaining subscription period
Good Faith: We understand that technical troubleshooting sometimes requires testing system behavior. Contact support if you need to temporarily adjust settings for legitimate technical reasons.
9. Future Technology Changes
Future Technology Changes
You acknowledge that Hardstop may:
Introduce new filtering or device-management technologies
Modify enforcement mechanisms as platforms evolve
Adjust technical implementation without prior notice
Change service providers or underlying infrastructure
Enhance blocking capabilities
Not Material Changes: These technical changes do not constitute a material change to the service's core purpose: providing DNS-level content filtering, systemic network protection, with password-protected accountability.
Your Rights: If a technical change fundamentally alters how the service works or significantly reduces its effectiveness, you may cancel your subscription.
10. Memberships
Hardstop memberships grant access to the Hardstop program and associated filtering controls for the duration of the active membership period.
Membership access is conditional on:
Active payment status
Ongoing compliance with these Terms
Being 18 years of age or older
Using the service for personal accountability (not managing others' devices)
Memberships are:
Personal and non-transferable
Limited to devices you personally own and use
Subject to these Terms of Service
Free Trial:
New users receive a 7-day free trial
No payment is required during the trial period
You will not be charged unless you continue beyond the trial period
You may cancel anytime during the trial at no cost
If you do not cancel, your trial automatically converts to a paid subscription
11. Subscriptions
Hardstop may be offered as a recurring subscription or fixed-term program. The subscription term and renewal conditions are disclosed at checkout and form part of these Terms.
Automatic Renewal
Unless otherwise stated, subscriptions automatically renew at the end of each billing cycle at the then-current rate unless cancelled prior to renewal.
You are responsible for managing cancellations before renewal.
Cancellation
Cancelling a subscription:
Stops future billing immediately
Does not automatically remove existing device configurations or controls
Does not entitle you to a refund for the current billing period unless required by law
Does not provide immediate access to your configuration password
After Cancellation: To remove Hardstop filtering after cancelling:
Request your configuration password (if cooling off period is active)
Wait for cooling off period to expire (if applicable)
Receive password via email
Follow uninstall instructions at [link to knowledge base]
Post-Cancellation Effect
Configurations may remain active after cancellation until you:
Request and receive your password
Complete the uninstall process
Immediate removal is not guaranteed. Your account data will be retained for 30 days after cancellation, then permanently deleted.
12. Support and Password Release
Support Channels:
Standard support: info@tryhardstop.com
Emergency support: info@tryhardstop.com
Business hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm EST (excluding US holidays)
Password Release - Standard Process:
Request your password via info@tryhardstop.com
We confirm your identity using account email
Cooling off period timer begins (if not already running)
Password delivered 24 hours after cooling off period expires
Use password to remove configuration per uninstall instructions
Password Release - Emergency Process: For genuine emergencies (medical, mental health crisis, safety):
Email info@tryhardstop.com with subject line "EMERGENCY ACCESS"
Briefly explain the emergency situation
We review and respond within 2 hours during business hours
Emergency requests may be granted before cooling off period expires
What Qualifies as Emergency:
Medical emergency requiring access to health information
Mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts
Safety concern or domestic violence situation
Child emergency requiring immediate device access
Other situations where delay could cause serious harm
Response Time Commitments:
Standard password requests: 24 hours after cooling off period expires
Standard support inquiries: Within 24 business hours
Emergency requests: Within 2 hours during business hours
After-hours emergencies: Within 8 hours
Limitations: Hardstop cannot guarantee:
Instant access (please maintain emergency contact methods)
Access during system outages or technical failures
Access if you lose access to your registered email account
Response times outside business hours for non-emergency requests
Identity Verification: For security, passwords are only released to the email address registered to your account. We cannot release passwords via:
Phone calls
Text messages
Alternative email addresses
Third parties
Our Philosophy: We are here to support your goals, not to judge or control you. If you need access, we will work with you respectfully and promptly. Your wellbeing and autonomy are our priorities.
.
After Cooling Off Period: To remove Hardstop filtering after your cooling off period:
Request Password: Email info@tryhardstop.com requesting your configuration password
Wait: Your cooling off period begins/continues
Receive Password: Password delivered 24 hours after cooling off period expires
Uninstall: Follow platform-specific instructions below
Uninstall Instructions:
iOS/iPadOS:
Open Settings > General > VPN & Device Management
Tap the Hardstop profile
Tap "Remove Profile"
Enter the password provided by Hardstop
Confirm removal
macOS:
Open System Preferences > Profiles
Select the Hardstop profile
Click the minus (-) button
Enter the password provided by Hardstop
Confirm removal
During Cooling Off Period: If you need to remove Hardstop before your cooling off period expires:
Contact info@tryhardstop.com explaining your situation
For emergencies, email info@tryhardstop.com
We will work with you to find an appropriate solution
After Removal:
Your device returns to normal operation immediately
DNS filtering stops
All Hardstop configurations are removed
Your account remains active unless you separately cancel your subscription
You may reinstall Hardstop at any time
Account Cancellation vs. Uninstall:
Cancelling subscription = stops future billing, but doesn't remove configurations
Uninstalling = removes configurations from device, but doesn't cancel subscription
To fully exit: Cancel subscription AND uninstall from devices
14. Billing and Payments
Payment Authorization
By enrolling, you authorize Hardstop LLC to charge your nominated payment method in accordance with your selected plan.
Free Trial:
7-day free trial for new users
No payment required during trial
Trial converts to paid subscription automatically unless cancelled
Cancel anytime during trial at no cost
Subscription Billing:
Recurring subscriptions: 0.33¢ per day, billed every 75 days
Billed automatically to your payment method on file
You will receive email notification before each billing cycle
Refunds
Except where required by applicable law, all payments are non-refundable, including for:
Partial periods
Early termination
Dissatisfaction or non-use
Inability to complete cooling off period
Change of mind
Exception: If Hardstop fails to work as described or provide the core service (DNS filtering), contact info@tryhardstop.com. We will work with you to resolve the technical issue.
Failed Payments
If a payment fails, Hardstop may:
Suspend support services and password release
Maintain active device configurations (blocking remains active)
Terminate your account after 14 days of non-payment
Continued non-payment may result in termination and loss of access to support for password release.
Price Changes
Hardstop may change pricing with 30 days' advance notice. Continued use after the notice period constitutes acceptance of updated pricing. Existing subscription periods will complete at the original price.
Chargebacks
Initiating a chargeback without first contacting Hardstop support may result in:
Immediate suspension of support services
Inability to obtain configuration password
Termination of service
Permanent ban from Hardstop services
Please contact support first to resolve any billing disputes.
15. Device and Data Responsibility
You remain solely responsible for:
Backing up personal data before installing Hardstop
Device compatibility and performance
Account credentials and email access
Compliance with manufacturer terms (Apple, Google, Microsoft, etc.)
Maintaining email access for password recovery
Understanding your device's features before installation
Not Our Responsibility: Hardstop is not responsible for:
Data loss from any cause
Device lockouts or access issues
Third-party account issues (Apple ID, Google Account, etc.)
Hardware failures or malfunctions
Compatibility issues with specific device models or OS versions
Conflicts with other security or management software
Your Obligations:
Ensure you can access your registered email before requesting password
Back up important data regularly
Understand how to factory reset your device as a last resort (though this should not be used to circumvent accountability)
Maintain active Apple ID / Google Account credentials
16. Limitation of Liability
To the maximum extent permitted by law:
"As Is" Service:
Hardstop is provided "as is" and "as available"
We make no warranties about uninterrupted service, error-free operation, or specific results
We do not warrant that Hardstop will be 100% effective at blocking all content
Liability Limitations:
We are not liable for indirect, incidental, consequential, or punitive damages
We are not liable for loss of profits, data, goodwill, or other intangible losses
Total liability is limited to fees paid by you in the preceding 30 days
Examples of Non-Liability: We are not liable for:
Mental health outcomes or addiction recovery results
Relationship or employment consequences
Time lost during cooling off periods
Frustration or inconvenience from filtering
Technical issues with devices or third-party services
Inability to access content when needed
Consumer Protection: Nothing in these Terms excludes or limits non-excludable consumer guarantees under Australian Consumer Law, EU consumer protection laws, or other applicable consumer protection legislation. Where such laws apply and cannot be excluded, our liability is limited to the extent permitted by law.
17. Indemnity
You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Hardstop, Hardstop LLC, its directors, officers, employees, agents, and contractors from any and all claims, damages, losses, liabilities, costs, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising from:
Your use or misuse of the service
Your breach of these Terms
Disputes regarding device ownership or authority to install Hardstop
Your violation of any third-party rights
Your installation of Hardstop on devices you don't own or have authority to manage
Your misrepresentation of age or eligibility
Claims by minors if you installed Hardstop on their devices in violation of these Terms
18. Termination
By Hardstop: We may suspend or terminate your access immediately if you:
Breach these Terms
Attempt to defeat, bypass, or circumvent controls
Abuse or harass support staff
Use the service unlawfully
Are under 18 years of age
Use Hardstop on devices belonging to minors
Use Hardstop as a parental control or monitoring tool
Misrepresent your identity, age, or device ownership
Share circumvention methods with other users
Reverse engineer the service
Initiate chargebacks without contacting support
Effect of Termination:
Your account access is revoked immediately
You lose access to support and password release services
Billing stops for future periods
No refunds for current or past periods
Configurations may remain active on devices
Important: Termination does not automatically remove configurations already applied to your devices. However, if you are terminated for age violations (minor use), we will provide your configuration password immediately upon request to allow removal.
By You: You may cancel your subscription at any time through your account settings or by contacting support. See Section 11 (Subscriptions) for cancellation details.
19. Changes to Terms
We may update these Terms periodically to reflect:
Changes in our service offerings
Changes in legal or regulatory requirements
Improvements to clarity or user protection
Technical changes to our service delivery
Notice:
We will post updated Terms on our website
The "Effective Date" at the top will be updated
For material changes, we will notify you via email
Continued use after changes constitute acceptance
Your Rights: If you do not agree with updated Terms:
You may cancel your subscription
Cancel within 30 days of notice for material changes to receive a pro-rated refund
Complete the uninstall process using your configuration password
20. Governing Law
These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of Delaware, United States of America, without regard to conflict of law principles. You submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the state and federal courts located in Delaware.
International Users: If you are located outside the United States, your use of Hardstop may also be subject to local laws. You are responsible for compliance with applicable local laws.
Consumer Protection: Nothing in this section removes or limits your rights under mandatory consumer protection laws in your jurisdiction, including but not limited to Australian Consumer Law, EU consumer protection regulations, or UK consumer rights.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or concerns about our Terms of Service, please contact us:
General Inquiries: Email: info@tryhardstop.com
Support & Password Requests: Email: info@tryhardstop.com
Response time: Within 24 business hours
Emergency Access: Email: info@tryhardstop.com
Response time: Within 2 hours during business hours (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm EST)
Mailing Address: Hardstop LLC - 131 Continental Dr Suite 305, Newark, DE 19713 US United States
Business Hours: Monday-Friday: 9am-5pm EST Closed on US federal holidays
Emergency requests received outside business hours will be processed on the next business day unless they involve immediate safety concerns.