Modern smartphones store a huge amount of confidential information, and the Xiaomi Mi 10 is no exception. The device, which runs on the basis of the MIUI shell, offers flexible tools to protect personal space from prying eyes. Set a reliable access barrier is the first step that you need to do immediately after buying or resetting your settings.
In this article, we will take a look at all available screen locking techniques, from classic digital codes to advanced biometric systems, learn how to configure fingerprint and facial recognition, and how to protect individual applications with an additional layer of security.
Ignoring these settings can lead to a leak of personal data in the event of loss of a gadget or its theft, so the issue of cybersecurity should be given special attention, choosing the optimal balance between ease of unlocking and reliability of protection.
Types of screen locking in MIUI
The MIUI system installed on the Xiaomi Mi 10 provides users with a wide range of authentication methods. You can choose from five main options, each with its own characteristics and reliability level, depending on your personal preferences and security requirements.
The most common and quick way is to use a pattern lock, but it can be less reliable than a complex alphabetic-digital password. For maximum protection, it is recommended to use a password, although it takes longer to enter it. The graphical pattern is convenient, but fingerprints on the screen can give off a trajectory.
- 🔒 Password: combination of letters and numbers that ensure the highest level of data protection.
- 🔢 PIN-code: a four-digit or longer numeric code, convenient for quick input.
- 🔑 pattern lock: Connecting dots on the screen in a specific sequence.
- 👁️ Face ID: Biometric facial recognition with a front camera.
- 👆 Fingerprint: scanning a papillary pattern through a sensor built into the screen.
It’s worth noting that biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial scans, is stored in a secure, isolated processor module, which means that even if an attacker hacks into the operating system, they won’t be able to extract your biometric patterns. However, unlocking the device after restarting will always require entering the primary password or PIN-code.
⚠️ Attention: pattern lock is considered the least secure method, as greasy marks on the screen can help an attacker guess the combination.
Step-by-step setting a password and PIN-code
The process of installing protection on the Xiaomi Mi 10 is standardized and takes no more than a minute. First, you need to get to the main settings menu of the system, this can be done through the gear icon on the desktop or through the notification bar.
In the settings menu, find the security section of the device. It may be called differently in different versions of the firmware, but the logic remains the same. Once you log in, you will be asked to choose the type of lock you want.
☑️ Preparation for the installation of protection
If you choose. PIN-The code, the system will ask you to enter four digits, and then confirm them with re-entry. The password will require a more complex combination. Once you enter successfully, the system can suggest linking Mi Account, which is crucial for restoring access in case you forget the code.
The sequence of actions for installation is as follows:
- Click on the password icon or PIN-code.
Once the setup is complete, the lock screen will be activated, and now every time the screen is turned on or after a period of downtime, the device will require the combination entered, a basic level of protection without which it is impossible to fully use security features.
Setup of biometric protection
The Xiaomi Mi 10 features an advanced ultrasonic fingerprint scanner built directly into the display. This technology allows you to unlock your smartphone with a light touch without taking your hand looking for physical buttons. The biometrics setup greatly speeds up access to the device.
To get started with fingerprints, you have to first set a digital password or a graphical key, because they are a backup method, and without a master password, the system won't allow you to add biometrics, which is a security requirement for all modern mobile operating systems.
The scanning process takes about 30 seconds, and you'll have to repeatedly put your finger on that area of the screen, slightly changing the angle of inclination, and the system will create a digital cast of your finger that will be used to authorize and confirm payments.
In addition to a fingerprint, there's a facial unlock feature available, which is less secure than a fingerprint scanner because it uses a regular camera, for many users, it's the most convenient option. The algorithm analyzes facial geometry and skips the user if the match is high enough.
- 🖐️ In-screen scanner: fast and modern method, does not require separate mechanical elements.
- 📸 Face Unlock: A convenient but less secure alternative that works in good lighting.
- 🔐 Dual protection: the ability to require both a face and a fingerprint to access secret folders.
⚠️ Note: Do not use photos or masks to customize Face ID, The system may be misused, although in new versions MIUI Algorithms for checking liveliness are introduced.
Protection of individual applications with a password
One of the unique features of MIUI is the ability to set additional passwords to run specific applications, which is useful if you give a phone to children or colleagues, but want to hide correspondence in messengers or access to a banking application.
The feature is called Application Protection, and it activates in the same menu where you set up your screen lock, and you can select any list of programs that you can access only after you type in a special password or scan your finger.
To activate the protection, follow the following steps:
- Go to Settings → Apps.
- Find the application protection item.
- Create a separate password or use the same one as the screen.
- Turn on the switches opposite the desired programs (for example, WhatsApp, Gallery).
Now, when you try to open a secure application, the system will require additional authorization, which creates a second layer of defense: even if an attacker unlocks the screen, they will not be able to access sensitive data inside the applications.
What to do if the password from the applications is forgotten?
It is recommended to use biometrics for quick access to such applications so as not to enter codes constantly.
Comparison of protection methods
To help you choose the best option, we have prepared a comparison table that demonstrates the strengths and weaknesses of each method in the context of using the Xiaomi Mi 10.
| Method | Speed. | Reliability | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Password. | Low. | Very high. | Low. |
| PIN-code | Medium | Tall. | Average. |
| pattern lock | Tall. | Medium | High. |
| Print. | Very high. | Tall. | Very high. |
| Face ID | Tall. | Medium | High. |
As you can see from the table, biometric methods benefit in speed and convenience, but require a primary password as a backup. For maximum security, experts recommend using a bundle: complex password + fingerprint.
The choice of method also depends on the operating conditions. If you often work with gloves, the fingerprint scanner may work worse, and then the help will come to the rescue. PIN-code ID. Xiaomi’s system flexibility allows you to combine these tools.
Password management and restoration of access
Forgetfulness is a common problem for users, and if you forget your screen password, it's complicated by the fact that the current versions of Android and MIUI don't have a simple "reset password" button without losing data, and it's designed specifically to protect the owner's information.
The only reliable way to restore access to the device with a forgotten password is a full reset to factory settings (Hard Reset), which will delete all photos, contacts and applications, so having a backup in the Mi Cloud or on your computer is critical.
💡
Backup your data to the cloud regularly, and that's the only way you can save information if you forget your screen password.
To do the reset, you need to turn off your phone and press the button combination Volume Up + Power. In the Recovery menu that appears, select Wipe Data and confirm the action. Once you reboot, the phone will be as new, and you can set a new password.
If you have enabled a device search and linked Mi Account, you can try to delete the password remotely via i.mi.com. However, this feature does not always work and depends on the presence of an active Internet connection on the locked device.
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Forgotten password from the screen on modern Xiaomi smartphones can be removed only by a complete data reset, so backup is mandatory.