Protecting your personal data on Xiaomi Redmi starts with controlling access to apps. Whether you want to hide messaging, restrict access to banking services, or simply protect games from children, blocking apps solves these problems. Unlike deleting them completely, it keeps the program functional but makes it unavailable without authorization.
The manufacturer has integrated into the company shell MIUI There are a few built-in lock mechanisms, and for advanced scripts, there are third-party solutions. In this article, we will look at all the current methods, from standard settings to hidden functions that are not written about in the official instructions. MIUI (from MIUI 12 before MIUI 14) Redmi models, including Note 10/11/12, Redmi 9/10/13C and flagship series).
1. Built-in application locking via Second Space
Second Space is a MIUI sandbox that creates an isolated copy of the system with separate applications and data, ideal for separating personal and work accounts or restricting access to certain programs.
To block the application through Second Space:
- Open Settings → Special Options → Second Space
- Create a second profile, follow the instructions on the screen (you need to set a password or a pattern lock).
- In the main space, go to Settings → Applications → Application Management.
- Select the application you want and click Move to Second Space.
Now the app will only be available after switching to Second Space and entering a password. Importantly, this method does not encrypt the application data, but only hides it from the main profile. For full protection, use App Lock (see next section).
2. App Lock: Standard Application Lock
App Lock is a feature built into MIUI that allows you to set a password, fingerprint or facial recognition to access individual applications. It works on all Redmi models with MIUI 10 and later.
Algorithm of settings:
- Go to Settings → Passwords and Security → App Lock.
- Activate the function by setting the main password (it will be used to unlock all protected applications).
- In the list of applications, tick the ones you want to block.
- Set up additional parameters: 🔒 Hide notifications – blocks content from blocked apps from being displayed in the curtain. 👤 Allow access through the print – speeds up unlocking. ⏱ Autolock – Closes the application after inactivity (1 to 30 minutes).
If App Lock is not in the settings, check:
- 📱 Version MIUI: firmware (MIUI 9 and below) the function may be called Application Lock and be in Settings → Additionally.
- 🌍 Firmware region: Global (Global) and Chinese (China) versions may have different paths.
- 🔄 Updates: Install the latest version of Security (Security app) via Google Play.
Set the main password (at least 6 characters)|Check compatibility with the version MIUI|Disable Auto-Run for Blocked Applications|Synchronize fingerprints (if you use biometrics)-->
3. Blocking through “Private Mode” (Hidden Apps)
Private Mode (or Hidden Apps) hides apps from the main menu and search, but does not block them from running. To completely restrict access, combine this method with App Lock.
How to hide and block the application:
- Hold your finger in the free seat of the main screen → select Screen Settings.
- Go to Hidden Apps (or Private Mode on older versions).
- Select hideout apps and confirm the action.
- Return to Settings → Passwords & Security → App Lock and block the same apps.
Now the annexes:
- 👁 Not displayed in menu and search MIUI.
- 🔐 Requires a password to run (via App Lock).
- 📱 Remain available through Settings → All applications, but with a password request.
What to do if the hidden app is missing from App Lock?
4.Use of third-party applications to block
If built-in MIUI features aren't enough, consider third-party utilities, which offer advanced features: time lock, geofences, hacking attempts, and even remote control.
Top.-3 supplant:
| Annex | Features | Cons | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| AppLock (from DoMobile) | Fingerprint lock, autolock timer, notification hiding | Advertising in the free version, high battery consumption | MIUI 10–14, Android 8–13 |
| Norton App Lock | Integration with antivirus, blocking over Wi-Fi | Requires registration, plugins for full functionality | MIUI 11–14, Android 9–14 |
| Smart AppLock | Mode "Guest", locking on schedule, fake failure in the hack | A complex interface, sometimes conflicting with MIUI | MIUI 12–14, Android 10–13 |
Warnings when using third-party blockers:
⚠️ Note: Some applications (such as AppLock) may conflict with MIUI Optimization is Xiaomi’s built-in optimization service. If the blocker spontaneously shuts down after installation, add it to Settings. → Annexes → Special access → Optimizing the battery → All applications and select No Limitations.
For maximum safety:
- 🛡 Install blockers only from Google Play (avoid). APK from unknown sources).
- 🔄 Regularly update the app – old versions may have vulnerabilities.
- 📵 Disable notifications from the blocker in the curtain so that the attacker does not see its name.
5.Blocking through "Parental Control"
If the goal is to restrict access to apps for children, use Parental Controls in MIUI. Unlike App Lock, it allows you to set time limits and block purchases.
Setting:
- Go to Settings → Passwords and Security → Parental Controls.
- Create a profile of your child by indicating their age (this will determine the standard limits).
- In the Application Limitation section, select the programs to block.
- Activate Password Request for Apps and Purchase Blocking.
Advantages of the method:
- 🕒 Flexible time limits (e.g., game locks after 21:00).
- 📊 Use statistics – you can see how much time the child spends in each application.
- 🔒 Remote management via Mi Account.
⚠️ Attention: Parental control in MIUI It does not encrypt application data if your child accesses your password (e.g., through Settings). → Google → Parental controls, it can disable the restrictions. For reliability, combine this method with App Lock.
6. Hiding and Locking Through "Password Folders"
MIUI allows you to create folders on the home screen and protect them with a password, which is convenient for grouping applications (for example, all messengers in one folder) and locking them simultaneously.
How to set up:
- Create a folder on the home screen by dragging one app to another.
- Open the folder and click on its name → select Password Protection.
- Set a password or pattern lock (it will apply to all applications in the folder).
- Add to the folder the other applications you want to block.
Limitations of the method:
- 🚫 Does not work for system applications (such as Settings or Phone).
- 🔄 When you delete the folder, the password is reset.
- 📱 On some models (Redmi Note 8 Pro, Redmi) 9A) The function may not be available – check the version MIUI.
💡
If the password folder doesn’t open after the MIUI update, reset it to Settings → Home Screen → Folders → Reset protection. The password will be deleted, but the apps will remain in place.
7. Advanced Methods: ADB and Hidden Settings
For experienced users willing to work with ADB (Android Debug Bridge), additional locking options are available: they require an unlocked bootloader and developer rights, but give full control of the system.
Example: blocking the application via pm hide (hiding from the launcher without deleting):
adb shell pm hide com.example.app
adb shell pm disable-user com.example.appWhere com.example.app is the batch name of the application (you can find it through the App Inspector or adb shell pm list packages).
Warnings:
⚠️ Note: pm hide and pm disable-user commands can cause system instability if critical services (e.g. com.miui.securitycenter) are blocked. → Additionally. → Backup and reset.
An alternative method is to edit a package.xml file into /data/system, but this requires root rights and is fraught with loss of warranty. For most Redmi users, built-in MIUI tools are enough.
💡
ADB-commands and manual editing of system files are only suitable for advanced users. MIUI or verified third-party applications.