How to set up screen lock on Xiaomi: all ways to protect

Locking the screen on Xiaomi smartphones is not just a way to protect personal data from outsiders, but also a must-have security element in the era of digital threats. Even if you are sure that your phone will never fall into the wrong hands, the lack of locking makes the device vulnerable to data theft through remote attacks or accidental pressing. In this article, we will examine all available methods of locking - from the classic locking method. PIN-code before biometric technologies, and also tell how to configure automatic blocking and avoid common errors.

The process of activating the lock on Xiaomi may differ depending on the firmware version MIUI (12, 13, 14 or HyperOS) and smartphone models (e.g. Redmi Note 12, POCO X5 Xiaomi 13T). But the basics remain the same: If you’ve just bought a new device or decided to finally secure your old Xiaomi, this guide will help you get it right the first time.

Why you need to lock the screen on Xiaomi

Many users neglect the lock, considering it unnecessary formality, but statistics of theft and data leaks suggest the opposite: more than 60% of stolen smartphones with unlocked screen lose all data within the first 24 hours.

• 🔒 Physical Access Protection: Even if the phone is stolen, the attacker will not be able to access photos, messages or banking apps.
• 🛡️ Malware obstacle: Some viruses only activate when the screen is unlocked.
• 📱 Loss safety: With locking, the chances of returning the device via Find My Device are much higher.
• 💳 Payment security: without blocking, you can not use Google Pay, Mi Pay or banking applications with two-factor authentication.

In addition, on Xiaomi devices, the screen lock is integrated with the data protection system MIUI. For example, it's impossible without her:

• 🔐 Encrypt files in the Security (Security) application).
• 📁 Hide folders in the Gallery or File Manager.
• 🔄 Use Second Space to separate work and personal data.

⚠️ Attention: On devices with MIUI 14 or later, when the first lock is enabled, the system automatically activates the encryption of user data, which can slow down the smartphone by 5-10% (especially on budget models like Redmi). A2). If performance is critical, choose a simple one. PIN graphical-key.

How to lock the screen on Xiaomi: a comparison of methods

Modern Xiaomi smartphones support up to 5 different types of locks, each with its own pros and cons. Below is a comparison table that will help you choose the best option.

For most users, a fingerprint combination is the best solution. + PIN-Biometrics provides speed, and PIN — If your Xiaomi supports an IR face scanner (such as the Xiaomi 14 Ultra), you can add this method, but remember: it is less reliable than a fingerprint.

Step-by-step: how to turn on the screen lock

The locking process on Xiaomi takes no more than 2-3 minutes, the main thing is to follow the instructions and not to miss the steps. MIUI (12 to HyperOS and Smartphone Models.

Step 1: Open the security settings

Go to the main settings menu.

1. Slip on the Settings icon (cog) on the home screen or in the application menu.
2. Scroll down and select Screen Lock and Password (on the MIUI 14 may be called Password and Security).
3. If you request a current password (for example, when changing the blocking method), enter it.

Step 2: Choose the type of lock

In the menu that opens, you'll see a list of methods available.

• 🔢 PIN-code - minimum length of 4 characters (recommended 6)+).
• 📐 pattern lock – draw a pattern by connecting at least 4 points.
• 👆 Fingerprint – You will need to pre-configure PIN/password.
• 😊 Facial recognition – available only on models with an IR camera.
• 🔑 Password – combination of letters, numbers and symbols (minimum 8 characters).

Step 3: Set up the chosen method

Depending on the type of lock, follow the instructions on the screen:

• For PIN-code: enter the combination twice. Use non-obvious numbers (not date of birth!).
• For a pattern lock, draw a pattern and repeat it. Avoid simple shapes (such as the letters "L" or "Z").
• Fingerprint: Tap Add a fingerprint. Put your finger on the scanner (usually on the power button or under the screen). Raise and lower your finger 5-6 times for a full scan. Name the fingerprint (e.g., "Indicator right").
• Face recognition: Point the camera at your face in a well-lit area. Turn your head slowly around for a circle. 3D-Repeat the process in low light (if the system requests it).

💡

If you have Xiaomi with AMOLED-screen (for example, Redmi Note 12 Pro)+), Turn on Always-on Display in lock settings, allowing you to see time and notifications without fully activating the screen, saving battery life.

Step 4: Set up automatic locking

After choosing the method of locking, it is recommended to set up automatic locking of the screen.

1. Return to the screen lock and password section.
2. Slip Autolock (or Sleep Time Out on HyperOS).
3. Choose the interval: from 15 seconds to 30 minutes. Optimally - 30 seconds or 1 minute.

⚠️ Note: On some models (POCO X3, Redmi 9A) When you choose a 5 minute or 30 minute interval, the system can automatically shut down the mobile Internet to save charge, which causes notifications to delay. If you notice a problem, reduce the timeout to 2 minutes.

Features of setting up on different Xiaomi models

While the general algorithm for locking is the same, some Xiaomi models have unique nuances.

Flagships (Xiaomi) 13/14, Mix series)

All locking methods are available on top devices, including:

• 👆 Ultrasonic fingerprint scanner (under screen, works even with wet fingers).
• 😊 3D-facial recognition with an IR camera (not fooled by a photo).
• 🔐 Hardware encryption (data is protected at the chip level).

On these models, the additional item Improved Security will appear in the lock settings, and its inclusion adds:

• Protection against selection PIN 5 failed attempts (locking for 30 minutes).
• Automatic data erasure after 10 incorrect inputs (optional).

Budget models (Redmi A2, POCO C55)

On inexpensive smartphones Xiaomi may not:

• 👆 Fingerprint scanner (e.g. on Redmi) A2 just a headphone jack).
• 😊 Facial recognition (no IR camera).
• 🔄 Second Space (requires a screen lock).

In this case, only one thing remains. PIN Or a pattern lock, a piece of advice for owners of these devices:

HyperOS models (Xiaomi 14, Redmi) K70)

The new HyperOS firmware has made changes to the security menu:

• Screen lock section moved to Settings → System system → Security.
• Added the option Block applications (you can protect individual programs).
• There is a Privacy Mode - when the screen is blocked, notifications are hidden.

The HyperOS algorithm for adding fingerprints has also changed:

Settings → System → Security → Fingerprints → Add fingerprint → Follow the instructions

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with the seeming simplicity of locking, users often make mistakes that lead to problems, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them.

Mistake 1: Using Simple PIN-code

Many people put it as PIN Date of birth, repeating numbers (1111, 1234) or last digits of a phone number, which are broken in seconds by brute force attacks.

Decision:

• Use the 6-digit PIN 4-digit.
• Combine numbers that are not related to you (for example, 742-916).
• Don't keep it. PIN in notes or screenshots on the phone.

Error 2: Lack of backup unlock method

If you've set up only a fingerprint or facial recognition, if you damage the scanner or camera, it's impossible to unlock the phone, a common problem after the device falls or moisture gets in.

Decision:

• Always tune in PIN or password as a backup method.
• Link your Mi Account to reset the lock via Find My Device.

⚠️ Attention: On devices with MIUI 13+ When you reset a lock, Mi Account erases all data (as in hard reset), which is a security measure, so backups are critical!

Error 3: Incorrect Autolock setting

Too short a time out (e.g. 15 seconds) leads to a permanent locking of the screen while reading or watching a video. Too long (e.g. 30 minutes) increases the risk of data theft when a phone is lost.

Decision:

• The optimal balance is 1-2 minutes.
• Use the Smart Lock feature (in Google settings) to turn off locking in secure locations (home, car).
• On HyperOS, enable Adaptive Lock – the system will take into account your habits.

Mistake 4: Ignoring security updates

An outdated version MIUI It may contain vulnerabilities that allow you to bypass the lock screen. MIUI 12.5 There was an error allowing you to reset the pattern lock through the recovery mode.

Decision:

• Check for updates to Settings regularly → The phone. → Updating the system.
• Enable automatic update downloads (but install them manually to avoid bugs).

💡

Never turn off the screen lock "for a while" - this creates a security breach. If you need temporary access (for example, for a child), use Guest Mode or Second Space in the settings. MIUI.

Additional security features on Xiaomi

Locking the screen is only the first step to fully protecting the device. MIUI HyperOS has additional tools that are worth configuring.

1. Application lock-up

It allows you to protect individual programs (for example, WhatsApp, Gallery, Banking applications) with an additional password.

1. Go to Settings → Applications → Blocking applications.
2. Set a password (it may be different from the main one) PIN-code).
3. Select the applications that you want to block.

On HyperOS, this feature is called Application Protection and is located in the Security section.

2. Confidentiality regime

Hiding notifications on the lock screen, useful if you don't want people to see the content of the messages, activated like this:

Settings → Notifications → On the lock screen → Select “Do not show content”

3. Second Space (Second Space)

Creates an isolated copy of the system with separate applications and data, ideal for separating work and personal data.

1. Open Settings → Special Opportunities → Second Space
2. Follow the setup wizard (you will need to set a separate password).
3. Select applications that will be duplicated in the second space.

Protection against unauthorized discharge

Nana MIUI 14+ Reset Protection, which requires you to enter a password when you try hard reset via Recovery Mode, prevents data theft when you lose your phone:

Settings → Password and security → Reset protection

What to do if I forget the password from the lock

A situation where the user forgets PIN, Fortunately, Xiaomi has several ways to restore access — but all of them require prior preparation.

Method 1: Recovery with Mi Account

If you have linked your Mi Account to your phone, you can reset the lock via Find My Device:

1. Go to i.mi.com from a computer or other phone.
2. Sign in under your account.
3. Select the locked device in the list.
4. Click Unlock the device (all data will be erased).

⚠️ Note: This method only works if the phone is on mobile Internet or Wi-Fi. If the device is disconnected from the network, unlocking through Mi Account is not possible.

Method 2: Reset via Recovery Mode

If the Mi Account is not tied, it's just a hard reset, which will delete all the data, but unlock the phone.

1. Turn off your smartphone.
2. Press the Power button + Volume up until the Mi logo appears.
3. In the Recovery menu, select Wipe Data (use volume buttons for navigation).
4. Confirm the reset by choosing Yes.
5. After the reboot, the phone will look like new.

On some models (Redmi Note 11, POCO X4) Resetting requires you to enter your Mi Account password, even if it wasn't previously linked.

Method 3: Contacting a Service Center

If the phone has critical data and the reset is unacceptable, you can contact the official service center Xiaomi.

• Check or warranty card (proof of possession).
• Passport (for identification).

The cost of the service is from 1000 to 3000 rubles, depending on the model. Please note that not all centers provide such a service for devices older than 2 years.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions