Xiaomi, Redmi and Poco smartphone owners often use the built-in Application Protection feature to hide the content of messengers, banking programs or a gallery from prying eyes. However, over time, it becomes necessary to change the previously installed access code, especially if the old one has become too simple or someone has recognized it. The process of changing the password on the MIUI shell or HyperOS has its own nuances that differ from the standard screen unlock.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the algorithms of actions for various situations: from scheduled code replacement to restoration of access in case of complete loss of login data. The security of your data depends on the complexity of the combinations used, so you should not ignore the possibility of updating them. PIN-code.
It is worth noting that the security menu interface may vary slightly depending on the version of the operating system, but the logic of the operation remains the same for all devices of the brand. We will consider both the standard system tools and methods applicable in emergency cases. Remember that resetting the application protection password through the Mi Account is the only official way to restore access without losing data inside blocked programs.
Setting and changing your password through the security menu
To start with, let's look at the standard code change procedure, when you have access to your smartphone settings, which is suitable for those who want to update login data regularly for prevention, and you'll need to go to the main device settings menu and find the privacy section.
Find Application Protection (or App Lock) in the settings list. If you don't see it right away, search by settings by querying the settings, and the system will prompt you to enter your current password or use biometrics to confirm that the device owner is trying to access it.
Once you have successfully logged in, you will see a list of all the programs you can block, and at the top of the screen or in the optional settings menu (often indicated by three dots or a gear), you will need to select the option to change your password, where you can replace the old code with a new one by selecting your preferred authentication type.
☑️ Checking before changing password
When you create a new password, the system will offer several protection options. PIN-A code, pattern lock or mixed password is recommended to activate the use of fingerprint or Face to enhance security. ID, If your gadget supports these features, it will allow you to open applications quickly without manually entering the code every time.
Using a Mi Account to Restore
The situation of the user forgetting the password from application protection is one of the most common. Fortunately, the Xiaomi ecosystem provides a recovery mechanism through the cloud service, a critical step that must be configured in advance to avoid losing access to important data.
If you have entered the wrong password several times, the link “Forgot the password?” will appear on the application lock screen. By clicking on it, the system will redirect you to the Mi Account authorization page. You will need to enter the username and password from your Mi Account acca, which was previously associated with the device.
⚠️ Note: If you did not link your Mi Account before you forgot your password, you will not be able to restore access to blocked applications in the standard way.
Once you've successfully logged in, the system will suggest resetting your current application protection password, so you can install a new combination to replace the one you lost, and it's important to understand that this method only works if the device has an Internet connection when you try to recover it.
What to do if you forget your Mi Account password?
Change of type of lock and biometrics
The MIUI shell allows you to flexibly configure authentication methods. You don't have to be limited to just digital code. Switching between password types can improve usability or, conversely, enhance protection depending on your needs.
To change the type of lock, go to the application protection settings and select Change Password. The system will suggest you choose a new method: a pattern lock, a digital code or an alphanumeric password. The pattern lock is often remembered better, but it can be peeked by others, while a complex alphabetic password is harder to pick up, but harder to type.
Special attention should be paid to the setting of biometric data. In the passwords and security menu -> Privacy, you can add a fingerprint specifically to unlock applications. This creates an additional layer of protection: even knowing your password, an attacker will not be able to log in without your physical presence.
- 👆 Fingerprint is the fastest and most convenient way available on most modern models.
- 👁️ Face unlocking – convenient but less safe in poor lighting or if someone is holding a phone in front of your face.
- 🔢 Digital. PIN — The classic method is difficult to peek from the side, but is easy to pick up if the code is simple (for example, 1234).
- 🔑 Strong password – maximum protection, recommended for banking applications, but takes time to enter.
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Use different types of passwords for the lock screen and for app protection, and this creates a double barrier for attackers.
Table of comparison of protection methods
To make it easier for you to choose the best protection option for your applications, we have prepared a comparison table that will help you assess the pros and cons of each method in the context of everyday use of Xiaomi smartphones.
| Protection method | Level of security | Speed of access | The risk of forgetting |
|---|---|---|---|
| pattern lock | Medium. | Tall. | Low. |
| Digital PIN (4-6 digits) | Low/Mediocre | Tall. | Very low. |
| Complicated password (letters + numbers) | High-pitched | Low. | High-pitched |
| Fingerprint. | High-pitched | Very high. | Absent. |
As you can see from the table, the combination of methods works best, for example, set a complex password as your primary password, but enable fingerprint unlock for quick access, in which case, even if the finger is not counted (for example, in gloves), you will still have a reliable backup option.
Access problems and their solution
Users often experience a situation where an application requires a password but the phone doesn't accept it. This can be due to a security failure or an input error. Before panicking, try restarting the device. Sometimes this helps to reset temporary software errors.
If the problem persists, check if Hide Content is enabled in the notification settings. Sometimes users think the password is not working because they don't see the messages even though the application is actually unlocked. Also make sure the device has an up-to-date version of MIUI installed, as older versions may have bugs associated with the security module.
In rare cases, it may be necessary to clean up the security component data. To do this, go to Settings -> Applications -> All Applications and find the system process responsible for protecting (often called "Security" or "Security"). Clearing the cache can solve the problem of freezing the password entry window.
⚠️ Note: Do not try to guess password by brute force. After a certain number of unsuccessful attempts, the system may temporarily block the ability to enter or require mandatory authorization through Mi Account, which will complicate the process if the account is not tied.
Resetting protection settings via Recovery (Extreme measure)
If none of the above methods worked, and you don't remember the Mi Account password, the only radical method left is a complete reset of the device, which will remove all data from the phone, including photos, contacts and installed apps, returning the smartphone to a factory state.
To perform the reset, you need to turn off the phone and press the key combination (usually Volume Up + Power) to enter Recovery mode. Select the language and press Wipe Data. After that, the phone will be as new, and when you first set up, you can set new passwords.
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Hard Reset removes all data from the device, and use this method only as a last resort when other recovery methods are not available.
Once you turn on your phone, reset the application protection by creating a new, strong password and by binding your account, which will prevent similar situations in the future. Remember that regular backup of data to the Mi Cloud cloud or computer minimizes losses if you need a complete reset.