The smartphone stores a huge amount of sensitive information, from instant messaging to accessing bank accounts. Owners of Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO devices often wonder how to restrict access to specific programs without blocking the entire phone. Fortunately, the MIUI shell and the new HyperOS offer built-in, powerful tools to solve this problem without installing third-party software.
Implementing application protection allows you to create an additional security barrier that requests identity verification every time you run a selected program. This is especially true when you hand over your phone to children for games or colleagues to view photos, but want to make sure that personal files remain inaccessible.The system provides flexible settings, including the use of a fingerprint, Face ID or digital PIN code.
In this guide, we will take a look at all the available methods for restricting access, configuring hidden space and managing rights, you will learn how to activate the application protection function, configure security settings and what to do if you forget your password.
Activation of built-in application protection
The initial security setting is done through the system settings menu, where the main access control levers are concentrated. First, you need to open the main menu and find the section responsible for device security. Depending on the firmware version, this item may be called simply Application Protection or located inside the Applications menu. Go to Settings → Applications → Application Protection to open the desired interface.
Once you log in, the system will suggest you create a password to protect if you haven't done it before. Importantly, this password may differ from the unlock password, which creates an additional layer of security. You can choose the format of protection: pattern lock, digital code or mixed password. Also at this stage, it is recommended to link the Mi Account account to allow you to restore access in case of data loss.
⚠️ Note: Do not use too simple combinations such as “1234” or “0000” as they are easy to pick up by pumping.
Once you set the password, you'll see a list of all the programs you've installed that you can protect, just switch the slider opposite the application you want to use to be active, and now every time you run the program you've chosen, the system will require authorization, and this works even for system utilities like Gallery or Messages, giving you full control over access to the content.
Set up biometric authorization
Constantly entering a password can be uncomfortable, especially if you often have to open secure applications. MIUI and HyperOS shells allow you to use biometric data to unlock instantly. To activate this feature, look for Settings (usually the gear icon in the corner) in the App Protection menu and turn on the option “Face Unlock” or “Face Unlock”.
Using biometrics greatly speeds up access, but requires you to pre-register your data in the system. Make sure that fingerprints are added to Settings → Passwords and Security → Fingerprints. If the finger is recognized, the application will open instantly, without the need to enter a code. In the event of a failed scan attempt, the system will automatically prompt you to enter a password.
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Add the fingerprint you normally hold your phone with (like your right thumb) to make it intuitive and quick.
It is worth noting that after a device is restarted or if the phone has not been used for more than 24 hours, the system may require you to enter a password manually for security reasons.This is a standard procedure for Android devices, which prevents access to data in case biometric data has been compromised or changed.
Use of hidden space mode
For users who want maximum privacy, the system has a “Second Space” mode, which is not just blocking applications, but creating a completely isolated environment with its desktop, settings and accounts, switching between the main and hidden spaces either through a special shortcut or a unique fingerprint or password.
To activate this feature, go to Settings → Advanced Settings → Second Space, where you will be asked to set up a separate password or fingerprint to log in. For example, you can assign your right index finger to enter the main space, and your left thumb to enter the hidden space, and when you unlock the phone will know which mode to boot into.
In a hidden space, you can install copies of applications (like a separate Telegram or WhatsApp) that are completely independent of the main ones, data in this space is not visible from the main system, and files are not displayed in a shared gallery, ideal for separating work and personal life or storing sensitive information.
Can I hide the entrance icon to the second space?
Blocking access to settings and system functions
One of the common problems is the accidental or intentional change of settings by children or other users. In addition to blocking specific applications, Xiaomi allows you to limit access to the system settings themselves, this prevents passwords from being reset, changing network settings or removing important system components.
To do this, you need to find the Settings system application in the Application Protection menu and lock it. Now, to change the settings of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or sound, you need to log in. This also applies to the About Phone menu, which displays information about the firmware version and device characteristics.
| Object of protection | Level of access | Recommended method |
|---|---|---|
| Messengers | High-pitched | Password + Fingerprint |
| Banking applications | Maximum | Complicated Password + Face |
| gallery | Medium. | pattern lock |
| System settings | High-pitched | Owner's PIN |
Also worth noting is the “Profile Limitation” feature (if available in your Android version), which allows you to create a guest profile with stripped down functionality, where you block Google Play purchases, install new apps and access to personal contacts by default, a softer protection option suitable for temporary transfer of the device.
☑️ Device security check
Dealing with blocked applications and exceptions
When applications are actively protected, there may be situations where blocking interferes with the normal functioning of the system or other programs. For example, notifications from a blocked messenger may not arrive until the application is opened and unlocked. To solve this problem, the security settings have a Notifications option that allows you to display notifications even without unlocking the application itself.
In addition, some system processes require access to secure components. If you notice strange behavior of the phone, check the exception list. In the protection menu, you can configure auto-unlock when connecting to trusted Wi-Fi networks or Bluetooth devices (for example, the owner’s smartwatch), although this feature is not available in all versions of the firmware.
⚠️ Warning: If you block the Security or Task Manager app, make sure you remember the password. Resetting the security without a password and a tied Mi Account will be extremely difficult, often requiring a complete data reset.
It also allows you to set up Smart Lock, which allows you not to request your password again for a certain time (e.g., 1 minute) after the last successful authorization, which is convenient for serial use of applications, but reduces the level of security if the phone falls into the wrong hands in this short period.
Restoration of access when password is lost
It is not uncommon for a user to forget the password that they have set, if you have attached your Mi Account to the first setup, it will take a few seconds to recover. On the password screen, click the "Forgot your password" (or similar link) button, and the system will prompt you to log in to your account and send the confirmation code to the associated phone number or email.
Once you've successfully verified, you'll be asked to set a new application protection password, all previously set restrictions will remain, but access to them will be updated with new credentials, this is the only regular way to restore without losing data. If the account was not tied, there are few options left: a complete reset of the phone to the factory settings (Hard Reset), which will lead to the deletion of all data.
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Linking a Mi Account when setting a password is a critical step, and is the only way to restore access without losing data.
There are also specialized service codes and techniques through ADB (Android Debug Bridge) that can help reset protection, but they require USB debugging enabled and certain technical skills.
Comparison of protection methods and final recommendations
To sum up, Xiaomi’s ecosystem offers a layered security system that can be adapted to suit any needs, from simply locking individual icons to creating completely isolated spaces, the choice depends on how sensitive your data is. Using biometrics makes the process convenient, and regularly updating the system closes potential vulnerabilities.
Don’t rely on just one method: App Protection + Hidden Space + Setting Lock creates an almost insurmountable barrier for outsiders to check regularly which applications are protected, especially after installing new programs or system updates, as settings can sometimes be reset.
Remember that technical protection is only part of security: don't hand over an unlocked phone to strangers, don't use simple passwords, and monitor physical access to the device. A comprehensive approach ensures that your personal information remains solely yours.