How to protect the gallery with a password on Xiaomi Redmi 8: all ways with step-by-step instructions

Photos and videos in the gallery of the smartphone often contain personal information, access to which should be restricted. on Xiaomi Redmi 8 (codename Olive) there are several ways to put a password on media files - from built-in tools. MIUI In this article, we will analyze all current methods, their pros and cons, and also give recommendations for choosing the most reliable option.

It’s important to understand that gallery protection on Redmi 8 is different from the similar feature on newer models (like Redmi Note 12 or Xiaomi 13). MIUI (before MIUI 12.5) there's no separate "Private folder" section in the gallery settings, so you'll have to use workarounds. MIUI 11 and MIUI 12 – They work stably if you follow the instructions.

If you need not just hide the photos, but completely block access to them without entering PIN-If you look at a code or a pattern lock, you'll notice a third way, which is using archivers, and it's suitable for users who want to keep sensitive files encrypted even when you reset your phone to factory settings.

1. Protection through the Security app (built-in method)

The easiest way is to use the standard Security app, which is pre-installed on all Xiaomi smartphones and allows you to create a Private folder where you can move any files, including photos and videos, and access to the folder will be protected by a password or fingerprint.

Advantages of the method:

• 📱 It works on all versions. MIUI for Redmi 8

How to set a password:

1. Open the Security app (find it through a search on the system or desktop).
2. Go to the Private folder section (may be called Privacy in some firmware).
3. Click Create a private folder and set a password (we recommend using a combination of numbers and letters).
4. Go back to the gallery and pick up the photos. → Share. → Move it to a private folder.

Make sure the Security app is updated to the latest version|

Make sure that there is enough space on the phone (minimum 500 MB)|

Remember or write down the password – it is impossible to restore it without resetting the phone|

Turn off battery optimization for the Safety app (in battery settings)-->

Limitations of the method:

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If your firmware doesn’t have a “Private Folder” section, upgrade the Security app via Google Play or Mi App Store. MIUI The feature is hidden – try changing the region in the phone settings to India or Global.

2. Use of archivers with encryption (the most reliable way)

If you want the most secure encryption that even a phone reset can withstand, use password-enabled archivers, a method that is suitable for users who store sensitive data on Redmi 8 (such as document scans or work files). RAR or 7Z (Free versions available on Google Play).

Step-by-step:

1. Install an archiver (for example, RAR) and open it.
2. Choose photos in the gallery → Share. → Add to the archive (in the archiver menu).
3. In the archive settings, select the format ZIP encrypted RAR password-wise.
4. Set a complex password (at least 12 characters, with letters and numbers).
5. Save the archive to a secure location (e.g., the cloud or the cloud) SD-map).

⚠️ Note: If you forget your password, it will be impossible to restore access to files, even through Xiaomi service centers).

Advantages of the method:

• 🔐 100% protection against unauthorized access (even when your phone is stolen).
• 📁 You can keep archives on SD-map or cloud.
• 🔄 Compatible with any device (opens even on PC).

Built-in private folder in MIUI|

Password archivers (RAR, 7Z)|

Third-party applications (GalleryVault, KeepSafe)|

Don't defend the gallery|

3. Third-party applications for gallery lock

If you don't like the standard methods, you can install specialized programs from Google Play, and we tested three of the most popular apps on Redmi 8:

How to set up GalleryVault:

1. Download the app from Google Play and open it.
2. Create a master password (don’t use date of birth or simple combinations!)
3. In the main menu, click Import and select photos from the gallery.
4. Activate the option Hide the app icon (in the settings) so that no one guessed about its presence.

⚠️ Note: Some applications (e.g. KeepSafe) require access to the Services with special masking capabilities.This may conflict with other programs on Redmi 8. MIUI.

Comparison of annexes:

4. Hiding photos through gallery settings (no password)

If you do not need full encryption, but simply hide photos from prying eyes, you can use the built-in gallery function. MIUI. This method doesn’t protect files with a password, but removes them from the main album.

Instructions:

1. Open the standard gallery on Redmi 8.
2. Select the necessary photos → Press More (three dots) → Hide.
3. Confirm the action. The files will disappear from the main album.
4. To see hidden photos, go to the Albums → Hidden.

Limitations:

• 🔓 Access to hidden files remains open – anyone can access the Hidden section.
• 📎 The function does not work for video (photo only).
• 🔄 When you transfer files to a PC or other phone, they become visible again.

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Hiding photos through a gallery is not protection, it's visual removal from the main album. Use a password or encryption for real privacy.

5.Folder protection via file manager (for power users)

This method is suitable for those who are ready to work with the Android file system. We will use the built-in File Manager (or Solid Explorer) to create a password-enabled container. The method requires root rights, but on Redmi 8 you can get them without the risk of “bricking” (if you follow the instructions).

Step-by-step:

1. Install Solid Explorer from Google Play (free version is fine).
2. Open the menu. → New → Password archive.
3. Choose the format ZIP encrypted 7z password-wise.
4. Move the necessary photos to the archive (you can have entire folders).
5. Remove the original files from the gallery (so they don’t duplicate).

⚠️ Note: If you delete the encrypted archive or forget your password, it will not be possible to restore photos. Before using this method, back up your files on your PC or in the cloud.

Advantages:

• 🔐 High level of protection (encryption at the file system level).
• 📂 You can protect entire folders, not just photos.
• 🔧 Flexible settings (selecting an encryption algorithm).

6. Comparison of all methods: which one to choose?

To make it easier for you to decide, we've put together a table with the pros and cons of each method.

Selection recommendations:

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For family: Use a built-in private folder – simple and secure.
• 💼 For work: archivers with encryption (7Z or RAR).
• 🕵️ For maximum secrecy: GalleryVault with a masked calculator.
• 🛠️ For experienced users: encryption via Solid Explorer + root.

7. Frequent mistakes and how to avoid them

When setting up gallery protection on Redmi 8, users often encounter typical problems, and we've collected the most common errors and ways to solve them:

Problem 1: Private folder won’t open after update MIUI.

• 🔹 Reason: Resetting the settings of the “Security” application».
• 🔹 Solution: Reset your phone and try again. If it doesn't work, reset your password through Settings → Accounts. → Mi Account → Data recovery.

Problem 2: The photo archive is damaged.

• 🔹 Cause: Interrupted encryption or memory shortage.
• 🔹 Solution: Check the archive with WinRAR on your PC (Recover function).If files are critical, use Recuva to recover.

Problem 3: A third-party app (like KeepSafe) doesn’t block the gallery.

• 🔹 Reason: Conflict with battery optimization MIUI.
• 🔹 Solution: Disable optimization for the application in Settings → Battery → Optimizing the battery.

⚠️ Note: If you are using Redmi 8 with firmware MIUI 10 or older, some features (such as a private folder) may not work well. MIUI 12 through Settings → Updating the system.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions