How to add an application to the list of protected on Xiaomi: full instructions with nuances

Xiaomi’s MIUI-based smartphones offer users advanced data protection tools, including Secure Apps**, which allows users to restrict access to selected programs through a password, fingerprint or pattern lock even if the main screen lock is disabled, but not all users know how to add an app to this list, especially if it is not displayed in the standard security menu.

In this article, we will discuss the current ways to add applications to the protected list on MIUI 14/15, including bypassing typical system constraints, working with adb rights, as well as solutions for cases when the desired application “disappears” from the security menu.

What are “Secure Apps” on Xiaomi and why do you need them?

The Secure Applications feature (or App Lock in the English version of MIUI) is a built-in Xiaomi tool that blocks access to selected programs with an additional layer of authentication. Unlike standard screen locking, it works even when the smartphone is unlocked, and protects:

  • 🔒 Messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) from reading messages by strangers;
  • 📷 Gallery and photos from viewing without permission;
  • 💳 Banking applications (SberBank, Tinkoff, Revolut) from unauthorized payments;
  • 📊 Social networks (Instagram, Facebook) from changes in the account.

It's important to understand that secure applications don't encrypt data inside programs -- they just restrict access to their interface, for example, if someone connects your smartphone to a computer, they can copy photos from the DCIM folder even if the gallery is locked.

⚠️ Note: On HyperOS devices (e.g. Xiaomi 14 or Redmi Note 13 Pro)+) The security menu may vary. If you don't find the Secure Apps section, check the path: Settings → Password and security → Confidentiality → Application lockdown.

Method 1: Standard Addition via MIUI settings

This is the basic method that works on most Xiaomi, Redmi and other devices. POCO without any further manipulation. MIUI 12-15 and HyperOS:

  1. Open the Settings. → Password and security.
  2. Select Privacy (or Privacy in English firmware).
  3. Slip on the application lock (App Lock).
  4. Enter your current password/fingerprint to confirm.
  5. Click Add Apps and mark the desired programs in the list.

If the required app is not on the list, try:

  • 🔄 Reboot your smartphone;
  • 📥 Update the app through Google Play;
  • 🛠️ Clear the settings cache (Settings) → Annexes → Application management → Settings → Clear the cache).

Make sure the app is installed and updated

Check for free space in memory (minimum 500 MB)

Disable VPN or proxy servers

Restart the device before setting up-->

Method 2: Add via hidden menu (for system applications)

Some system programs (such as Settings, Contacts, or Messages) may not appear in the standard App Lock list.

  1. Activate Developer Mode: Settings → About Phone → MIUI Version (Tap 7 times)
  2. Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers.
  3. Enable the option of debugging over USB.
  4. Connect your smartphone to your PC and execute the command: adb shell pm list packages -f | grep "name packet" (for example, use com.android.mms for Messages).
  5. Add the package to the protected via App Lock with the command: adb shell am start -n com.miui.securitycenter/.privacy.AppLockAddActivity --es package_name "packet"

⚠️ Note: Adb requires Xiaomi drivers installed and Google's Platform Tools program. Wrong commands can disrupt the system. Create a backup before experimenting!

How to find the name of the application package without ADB?
Open Google Play, find the app and copy its URL. The packet name will be after id= (e.g. com.whatsapp for WhatsApp).

Method 3: Bypassing restrictions through Second Space or Dual Apps

If the app is persistently not added to App Lock, the alternative is to use Second Space (second desktop) or Dual Apps (cloning applications), which will create a separate sandbox for the program with its own security settings:

  • 📱 Second Space: Settings → Special facilities → Second Space; Create a second profile and set a password; Move the desired application to Second Space; Block access to it through App Lock in the main profile.

Dual Apps:

  1. Settings → Applications → Dual Apps;
  2. Select a cloning app (e.g. Telegram)
  3. Add a clone to App Lock.
  4. 📵 Conflict with other programs: Remove third-party applications to block (for example, AppLock from third-party developers). MIUI.
  5. 🛠️ Cleaning up the data SecurityCenter: Settings → Annexes → Application management → Security Center → Warehouse → Clear the data ⚠️ This will remove all App Lock settings and fingerprints!

💡

If the application is not blocked, try temporarily disabling the AutoRun function for it in the battery settings. Sometimes background activity interferes with the lock.

Features for HyperOS and new Xiaomi models

Starting with Xiaomi 13/14 and Redmi Note 12/13 with HyperOS firmware, the App Lock interface has undergone changes.

  • 🔐 The New Way: Settings → Password and security → Blocking applications (without the Privacy section);
  • 📱 Face Unlock integration: you can now use facial recognition to unlock;
  • 🔄 Automatic Deletion: If the application is not used >30 days, it may disappear from the App Lock list;
  • 🛡️ Additional protection: Hidden applications option has appeared, which completely removes the program icon from the main screen.

⚠️ It will also remove fingerprints and graphic keys!

Does App Lock work if your phone is unlocked by fingerprint?
Yes, but only if the App Lock settings enable the option to Request Password after unlocking the screen. By default, the system may skip locking for convenience.
Can I block access to App Lock through another App Lock?
No, it will lead to a cycle of password requests, but you can: Use Second Space to create a separate profile with your own App Lock; Install a third-party blocking app (like Norton App Lock) for duplicate protection.