With the modern smartphone becoming a digital passport, a key to bank accounts and a store of personal correspondence, device security comes first. Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO owners often look for ways to enhance security beyond just swiping across the screen. MIUI offers flexible locking tools to choose the method that will be convenient for you.
The process of installing protection does not require special knowledge or programming skills. It takes a few steps in the settings menu to securely close access to the contents of your device. In this article, we will discuss in detail all the options available, from classical digital codes to advanced biometrics.
It's important to understand that not having a password makes your data vulnerable even if you lose control of your device for a short time. So, setting up access restrictions is a basic level of digital hygiene that you shouldn't neglect. We'll look not only at the installation itself, but also at the nuances of how different types of locks work.
The main types of locks in MIUI
The system gives the user a wide range of authorization methods, which you can combine or use separately depending on the situation, each type has its advantages in terms of speed and reliability.
The most common option is a digital or alphanumeric code, which is considered more reliable than a simple pattern lock, which often leaves noticeable marks on the screen and can be matched by greasy spots. PIN-code 4-6 Numbers that are introduced faster.
- 🔒 pattern lock – connecting points with a finger in a certain sequence.
- 🔢 Digital Password – a combination of 4 or more numbers.
- 🔤 Complex password – a combination of letters, numbers and special characters.
- 👁️ Face ID — Unlocking facial recognition (works faster on new models).
- 👆 Fingerprint scanner – classic biometrics built into a screen or button.
It's worth noting that using biometrics (fingerprint or face) always requires a backup password, which is necessary in case of sensor failure or device reboot, and without knowing the underlying code, unlocking your phone after restart is not possible, which is an important security measure.
Step-by-step setting a password on the lock screen
To activate protection, you need to go to the system menu. The path may vary slightly depending on the version of the shell, but the logic remains the same. First, open the Settings app and find the section responsible for security.
In MIUI, this is usually called Passwords and Security, and that's where all the access controls are concentrated. Click on Device Protection to select your preferred lock method.
☑️ Algorithm of protection installation
Once you have selected the type of lock, the system will ask you to enter the desired combination twice to confirm it, be careful when entering, as it will be difficult to correct the error without knowing the old code, and the system may suggest linking the Mi Account account to allow you to reset the password in case it is lost.
⚠️ Note: Forgotten password on modern versions of Android and MIUI It is almost impossible to remove without losing data. The reset function through a Google or Mi Account does not always work and depends on pre-setting.
Setup of biometric protection
Biometrics allow you to unlock your smartphone in a split second. On Xiaomi devices, the fingerprint scanner can be located on the back, in the side button on or embedded directly into the display. Setting up begins with the option “Add fingerprint” in the password menu.
The scanning process requires you to put your finger on different sides of the sensor several times, so that the system can create an accurate map of the papillary pattern. Take your time, try to change the angle of your finger so that the sensor can read the extreme areas.
| Type of biometrics | Location. | Speed of operation | Reliability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scanner in the button | Side/Back | Tall. | Very high. |
| Screen scanner | In the display. | Medium | Tall. |
| Face ID (2D) | Front camera. | Very high. | Medium |
| Face ID (3D/ToF) | Special module. | Tall. | Maximum |
The front camera is used for face unlock, but it's convenient, but it's worth remembering that it's a front camera. 2D-scanning is less secure than a print, because it can be fooled by a high-quality photo, but for everyday use, it's a great option.
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To improve the accuracy of the fingerprint scan, wipe your finger and sensor with an alcohol towel before setting up to remove fat and dust.
Second Space and Hidden Applications
The MIUI's Second Space feature allows you to create a completely isolated environment on one device, which is like having two different phones: one for work, one for personal affairs, or one for regular use, and the other for password concealment.
To activate this feature, go to the settings and find "Second Space," and the system will suggest setting up a separate password or fingerprint to log into this hidden profile, unlocking with your normal finger will take you to the main menu, and using the "secret" finger will open up hidden space.
Inside the second space, you can install separate apps, store photos and contacts that won't be visible in the main profile, and this is the perfect way to hide data from prying eyes if you have to give the phone to children or colleagues.
And then there's Hide Apps, which allows you to remove the icons of selected programs from your desktop, and you have to type in a special code in the Themes or Security app to access them, which is not full protection, but an additional barrier for the curious.
Smart locking and trusted devices
Entering a password can be tiring every time, especially when you're at home. Android offers a "Smart Lock" feature that lets you keep your device unlocked under certain conditions.
You can find this setting by going to Settings → Passwords & Security → Privacy → Smart Lock. There are several scenarios available here. For example, Safe Place lets you unlock when your phone is connected to your home Wi-Fi.
- 🏠 Safe place – unlock in a given geolocation.
- ⌚ Trusted device – while the smartphone is connected to a smartwatch or fitness bracelet via Bluetooth.
- 🗣️ Voice recognition – unlocking by voice command (less reliable).
Using Trusted Device is very convenient when paired with Xiaomi wearable electronics. As long as the smartwatch on your hand and connected to your phone, the screen will light up without asking for a password. Once the connection is interrupted, the protection will automatically activate.
What to do if the Smart Lock is not working?
Password Loss Actions and Security Tips
If you forget the code, the situation becomes complicated. The standard procedure for restoring a Google account on new versions of Android often requires a pre-setting that users forget about. The only guaranteed way is a full reset (Hard Reset).
To do this, turn off your phone and press the button combination (usually Volume up + Power). From the Recovery menu, select "Wipe Data." Importantly, this action will delete all photos, contacts and apps without the ability to restore.
⚠️ Warning: Once reset, the phone will require you to enter a password from a Google account that was previously synced (FRP), which cannot be bypassed by simple methods.
To avoid problems, use a password manager or write codes to a secure location. Regularly check whether backup to the Mi Cloud or Google Drive is working, which will allow you to quickly recover information even if the device is completely cleaned.
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Regularly checking the health of backups and remembering the password from your Mi/Google account is the only insurance against data loss when you block.