How to put a password on individual applications on Xiaomi: all the ways

Protecting personal data on a smartphone is a key challenge for the modern user. Even if you have installed a screen lock, individual applications (messengers, banking services, gallery) can contain sensitive information that should not be accessed by outsiders. Xiaomi offers built-in tools to protect applications with a password, but their implementation depends on the version of MIUI and the device model. In this article, we will discuss all the current methods, from standard functions to workarounds for older versions of firmware.

It’s important to understand that application protection techniques on Xiaomi have evolved, and while earlier it used a separate Security module, newer versions of MIUI 13/14 integrate the functionality into Settings → Applications, some models (such as the Redmi Note 10 Pro or POCO F4) may have nuances in the interface, and we’ve taken all of these features into account to make the instruction suitable for most of the brand’s devices.

Why is standard screen locking insufficient?

Many users mistakenly believe that PIN-The code or fingerprint on the lock screen is completely protective of the data:

• 🔓 Temporary access: Even with a screen lock, you can temporarily transfer your phone to another person (for example, to make a call), risking opening up apps.
• 📱 Vulnerabilities MIUI: in some versions of the firmware there are bugs that allow you to bypass the lock through Guest Mode or Screen bookmarks.
• 👶 Children and Accidental Clicks: A child may accidentally open a messenger or gallery, delete important messages or photos.
• 💼 Corporate security: If you use your phone for work, access to Slack, Telegram, or corporate mail should be restricted.

According to a 2023 Kaspersky study, 38 percent of mobile data breaches are due to unauthorized access to an unlocked phone, and passwords for individual apps reduce this risk by 89 percent, but it is important to set up protections properly so that they do not interfere with everyday use.

Method 1: Built-in "Application Lock" function in MIUI

The most reliable and official method is to use the built-in App Lock tool, which is available on most Xiaomi devices with MIUI 10 and newer, but the path to settings may differ.

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
2. Go to the Applications → Application Lock (on some models, the path: Settings → Special Opportunities → Application Locking).
3. Enter the current one. PIN-code, pattern lock or use your fingerprint to confirm.
4. In the list, select the apps you want to protect (e.g. WhatsApp, Gallery, SberBank Online).
5. Activate the switch next to the application name, and now you'll be asked for a password every time you run it.

On Xiaomi with MIUI 14 (for example, Xiaomi 13 Pro or Redmi Note 12), the interface has changed a little:

Settings → Privacy → Blocking applications

Make sure that the phone is installed PIN-code

Update MIUI to the latest version (if available)

Check the list of applications for the presence of important services (banks, instant messengers)

Create a backup of the data (in case of resetting settings)-->

Important nuance: if you use a fingerprint to unlock applications, make sure it is registered in the system (Settings) → Lock screen → Otherwise, the system will require input. PIN-code-in-the-box.

Method 2: Using "Second Space" to Isolate Applications

If your Xiaomi model does not support blocking individual applications (e.g., POCO M3 on MIUI 12.5), you can use the Second Space function, which creates an isolated environment with a separate set of applications and data, the advantage of the method is complete isolation, the disadvantage is the need to duplicate the installation of applications.

How to set up:

1. Go to Settings → Special Opportunities → Second Space.
2. Click Create a second space and follow the instructions (password entry is required).
3. After creation, switch to the second space via the notification panel (user icon).
4. Install the required applications (they will be available only here).
5. Return to the main space – now secure apps will not appear in the main menu.

⚠️ Warning: Second space doesn't encrypt data at the file system level. ADB Or Fastboot, an attacker can access both spaces. For maximum security, combine this method with device encryption (Settings) → Additionally. → Encryption).

Method 3: Third-party applications for blocking (AppLock)

If the built-in features of Xiaomi do not suit you, you can use third-party solutions.

• 🔒 AppLock (by DoMobile Lab) – supports password, fingerprint, lock on the Internet Wi-Fi/geolocation.
• 🛡️ Norton App Lock – Integration with antivirus, protection against screenshots.
• 📱 Smart AppLock – Minimalist interface, low battery consumption.
• 🔐 Locx – Scheduled lock (for example, only during working hours).

How to install and configure:

1. Download the app from Google Play (like AppLock).
2. Open it and set the master password (save it in a safe place!).
3. In the list, select applications for blocking (you can filter by category: social networks, banking, etc.).
4. Set up additional parameters: 🔄 Autolock after closing the application. 📸 Ban screenshots in protected applications. 🔔 Notifications of hacking attempts.

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Before installing a third-party AppLock, check its permissions in Google Play. If the application requests access to SMS, contacts or geolocation for no obvious reason, this is a reason to be wary.

Critical information: Some third-party blockers (especially from unknown sources) may become a vulnerability themselves.In 2022, researchers at Check Point discovered a flaw in the popular AppLock that allows you to bypass security through a vulnerability in Android. Use only proven solutions with high ratings (4.5+ stars) and regular updates.

Bypassing restrictions: what to do if there is no lock function?

On some Xiaomi devices (especially budget or older models such as the Redmi 5A or Mi A1), the application lock function may not be available, in which case one of the alternative methods will help:

Method 1: Hiding applications through “Hidden folders”

MIUI allows you to hide applications from prying eyes:

1. Press the app icon on the home screen → select Hide.
2. Confirm the action with a password (if requested).
3. To return the app, swipe the screen with two fingers down (a gesture to show hidden elements).

Method 2: Use of "guest mode"

Enable Guest Mode in user settings (Settings → System → Users → Guest) This mode will only access basic apps, and protected ones will be hidden.

Method 3: Blocking through Digital Well-Being

Android 9+ has a feature to limit the time of use of applications:

1. Open Settings → Digital Well-Being and Parental Controls.
2. Select the application → set a time limit (for example, 1 minute).
3. After the limit expires, the application is blocked before the timer is reset (PIN is required).

Xiaomi users with MIUI 14 have a new feature called Confidential Mode:

Settings → Privacy → Confidentiality

It allows you to hide notifications from protected applications on the lock screen and in the notification panel.

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The combination of built-in application lock + device encryption + regular MIUI updates ensures the maximum level of protection of personal data on Xiaomi smartphones.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions