Protecting personal data on Xiaomi starts with the right lock setting. Even if you use the device only for calls and messengers, without a password or biometrics, the risk of information leakage increases significantly. In 2026, the manufacturer offers 5 main ways to lock: classically PIN-So, what do you do before you get facial recognition through Face Unlock? But how do you choose the best option? And what do you do if you forget the combination?
In this article, we will provide detailed instructions for all Xiaomi models (including Redmi, POCO and Black Shark) running MIUI 14/15 and HyperOS. We will break down not only standard methods, but also hidden features like app locking or a second space that will add an additional layer of security. And if you already have a problem, at the end there is a section on how to reset the lock without losing data (works on 80% of devices with a Snapdragon chip).
1. Standard ways to lock the screen on Xiaomi
Basic protection is configured through the Settings menu → Password and Security → Screen lock. There are 5 options available here, each with its own pros and cons. Let's take a look at them in detail:
- 🔢 PIN-code: 4-16 digits, the most reliable option after the password, but easily forgotten, suitable for those who do not want to waste time typing long combinations.
- 🔐 Password: from 4 characters (letters) + figure + Maximum protection, but inconvenient for frequent use.
- 📱 pattern lock: 4-9 dots drawing. Convenient, but MIUI Limits the number of entry attempts (5 times), after which it is required to PIN.
- 👆 Fingerprint: Works on all models with sensor (including side scanners on the Redmi Note 12 and the Redmi Note 12). POCO X5). Quickly but not protect against forced unlocking.
- 👤 Face Unlock: Face recognition through the front camera. Works even in the dark on devices with an infrared sensor (for example, Xiaomi 13 Pro).
⚠️ Note: If you choose only biometrics (print or face) without backup PIN/Password, if the system fails, it will be impossible to unlock the phone! MIUI It will require at least one alternative method to be used.
2. Step-by-step instructions: how to set a password or PIN
The algorithm is the same for all Xiaomi devices on MIUI/HyperOS:
- Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
- Go to the Password and Security section.
- Select Screen Lock → Add Lock.
- Enter the current password (if it is already set) or click Continue for a new one.
- Select the type of lock: PIN or Password.
- Come up with a combination and confirm it with re-entry.
🔹 Tip: For PIN Use a combination that is easy to type with one hand (e.g. 1234). → Avoid dates of birth and repeating numbers.
Make sure your phone is at least 50 times charged%|Remember the backup email for resetting|Turn off "Smart lock" in the settings|Check the fingerprint sensor (if you plan to use it)-->
3. Fingerprint and Face Unlock settings
Biometric data is added after setting the primary password/PIN. Without it, the system will not allow the scanner or facial recognition to be activated.
👆 Fingerprint.
Supported on all models with a physical or subscreen sensor (e.g. Redmi Note 11 Pro+ or Xiaomi 12T).To add:
- Go to Settings → Password and Security → Fingerprint.
- Enter the current PIN/password for confirmation.
- Follow the instructions on the screen: apply your finger to the sensor at different angles (at least 8-10 touches).
- Name the print (for example, "Indicative right") and save.
👤 Face Unlock
It works on all front-facing cameras, but requires an IR sensor for reliability (a flagship like the Xiaomi 13 Ultra).
- Open Settings → Password and Security → Face Unlock
- Agree to a warning about less security (compared to a PIN).
- Place your face in an ovale on the screen and wait for the scan to be completed.
- Activate the option to request password confirmation if you want additional protection.
⚠️ Note: Face Unlock on budget models (Redmi) 10A, POCO M4) uses only 2D-camera and can be fooled by the photo! for maximum security, turn off this feature in public places.
What to do if the fingerprint scanner is not working?
4 Additional layers of protection: Second Space and application locking
Beyond the standard screen lock, MIUI offers two powerful privacy tools:
🔒 Second Space (Second Space)
This is a separate user profile with its own apps, files and settings, useful if you give your phone to your colleagues or children, but you don't want to show personal information.
- Settings → Special facilities → Second Space.
- Click Create a Second Space and follow the instructions.
- Set a separate password for the second profile.
- Switch between spaces can be swiped down the notification panel (user icon).
🔐 Application lockdown
Allows you to protect individual programs (such as WhatsApp or Gallery) with an additional password.
- Settings → Password and security → Blocking applications.
- Enable the function and set the PIN (may differ from the main one).
- Select applications from the list that require protection.
- Activate Hide notifications so that the content of messages does not appear on the locked screen.
| Function | Level of protection | Deficiencies | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Second Space | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | It takes up additional memory, not all applications are duplicated. | Separation of work and personal, parental control |
| Application lockdown | ⭐⭐⭐ | Password is requested every time you open, no biometrics | Protection of instant messengers, gallery, banking applications |
| Hidden Albums (in Gallery) | ⭐⭐ | Photos remain in the phone's memory, accessible through the file manager | Temporary concealment of personal photos from outsiders |
5 How to reset the lock if you forgot the password
If you have forgotten your PIN, pattern lock, or password, the recovery options depend on the MIUI model and version:
📧 Reset via Mi Account
The easiest way to do this is if your phone is linked to your Xiaomi account:
- After 5 failed attempts to enter, the button Forgot the password will appear.
- Choose Restore through Mi Account.
- Enter the email and password from your Mi Account.
- Follow the instructions to create a new lock password.
🔄 Hard Reset (Hard Reset)
Delete all data from the phone, but unlock it, suitable if there is no binding to the Mi Account:
- Turn off the phone.
- Press the Power button + Volume up until the Mi logo appears.
- From the Recovery menu, select Wipe Data → Wipe All Data.
- Confirm the action and wait for the reboot.
⚠️ Note: On devices with MediaTek chip (e.g. Redmi) 9A) Hard reset can lead to blocking FRP (Factory Reset Protection: This will require input from a previously linked Google account!
💡
If you often forget passwords, turn on Smart Lock (Settings → Password & Security → Smart Lock) in your settings.This feature automatically unlocks your phone in trusted places (such as at home) or when connecting to trusted Bluetooth devices.
6. Hidden security features in MIUI
In addition to the obvious settings, MIUI has little-known options for strengthening protection:
- 🔑 Phone Encryption: Complete Data Encryption in Settings → Additionally. → Confidentiality → Encryption: slows down by 10 to 15 percent, but makes data inaccessible without a password.
- 📡 Prohibition USB-Debugging: Turn off in Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI (7 times tap to unlock the developer mode, then in additional → For developers → Debugging by USB. This will protect you from connecting to your PC without your knowledge.
- 🛡️ Safe Mode: Press the Shutdown button → Hold it down. → Select Safe Mode. This mode only runs system applications (useful for virus testing).
🔹 For owners. POCO: These phones have a unique Game Turbo feature that can conflict with screen locking. If the phone doesn't lock after the game, turn off Auto-Optimization in Game Turbo settings.
💡
On devices with HyperOS (for example, Xiaomi 14) has a feature "Private Safe Mode", which allows you to hide selected files and applications for additional PIN-code that does not match the main lock password.