How to block the application on Xiaomi Redmi Note 9: the full guide

Modern smartphones like the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 store a huge amount of personal information that should not be open to prying eyes. From wanting to hide messages in messengers to installing parental controls for children. MIUI offers powerful built-in tools to solve this problem without installing third-party software.

In this guide, we will take a look at all the available methods for restricting access to content, learn how to use the App Lock feature, how to hide program icons and what security nuances should be considered when setting up the Redmi Note 9. Properly configuring these options will allow you to feel confident handing over your phone to family members or friends.

The locking process on Xiaomi devices is as simple as possible for the user, but has its own characteristics in different versions of the firmware. We will look at current algorithms of actions that work consistently. It is important to understand the difference between a full launch lock and a simple hiding of an icon, since these methods solve different data protection problems.

Use of the built-in App Lock function

The main security tool is the App Lock system utility, which is built into the MIUI shell and does not require downloading additional files from the Play Market store. To activate this mode, you need to open the Settings menu and scroll down to the App section, where you will find the Application Lock option, which will be the entry point for the security settings.

When you first start up, the system will suggest creating a unique password or using a graphical key other than the screen unlock code, which is done to improve security: even if you know the phone access code, an attacker will not be able to log into secure programs. Redmi Note 9 also allows you to associate access to your fingerprint, which greatly speeds up the authorization process.

⚠️ Note: If you forget the password from App Lock and do not link Mi-account, it will be extremely difficult to restore access to blocked applications, sometimes only through a complete data reset.

Once you set the password, you'll see a list of all the installed programs, you'll just need to switch sliders against those apps that require protection, most often users will choose WhatsApp, Telegram, Gallery and banking applications, and after activation, each time you run the selected program, the system will request proof of identity.

  • 🔒 pattern lock – a classic method that requires remembering the sequence of connection points on the screen.
  • 👆 Fingerprint is the fastest way to use the built-in scanner on the side of the Redmi Note 9.
  • 📸 Facial recognition is an alternative biometric method that works through a front camera.

Adjust Parental Controls through Second Space

For deeper application isolation, especially if a child is using a phone, Second Space is the perfect feature. It's not just locking, it's creating a full-fledged second operating system inside your smartphone. In this space, you can install a separate set of applications that won't be visible in the main profile.

Activation occurs through the Settings menu → Additional → Second space. Once created, you get a separate desktop, you can install games or a browser, and your main profile is password protected, and switching between spaces is done through a special shortcut or fingerprint assigned for quick login.

📊 What type of protection do you use most often?
pattern lock
Fingerprint.
Pin code.
Third-party annexes

Using Second Space on Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 allows you to effectively separate work and personal content. You can leave your child a phone with educational programs installed in the second space while the main files and messengers remain hidden in the first one, this ensures a high level of privacy and prevents the accidental deletion of important data.

  • 📱 Complete isolation – data in two spaces do not intersect or are not visible to each other.
  • ⚙️ Flexible setting – for each space you can set your own wallpaper, ringtones and sets of widgets.
  • 🚀 Fast switching – switching between profiles takes less than a second when using biometrics.

Hidden Apps from the menu (Hidden Apps)

Another layer of protection is Hidden Apps, which, unlike App Lock, does not ask for a password when it starts, but completely removes the program icon from the desktop and from the menu of all applications, and you can only find the program through a special menu or search bar if you know the exact name.

To activate this feature on Redmi Note 9, go to Settings → Applications → Hidden Apps. In the list that opens, select programs that you want to make invisible. After that, they disappear from the screen. To access them in the application menu, swipe from the bottom up or enter a special code in the search bar.

How to create code for quick access to hidden applications?
In some versions MIUI You can set up a special search query, for example, if you search on the desktop the word "secret", a folder with hidden applications will open. → Desktop → Hidden applications."> Hiding icons is often used in conjunction with password locking. First, you hide the app and then put protection on the folder it's moved to, or use App Lock for the shortcut itself if it's left visible. This dual-track approach creates a serious obstacle for curious people. ⚠️ Note: Hiding applications is not a reliable method of encrypting data.A skilled user can find hidden files through a file manager or data usage settings. If you need to temporarily give your phone to a friend to call or view a photo, but you do not want it to dig into your settings, use Guest Mode. This is a temporary profile with limited access that does not affect your personal data and the settings of the main user. Enable guest mode on Xiaomi is through the notification curtain. Lower the top panel twice, find the profile icon (usually where the owner's name) and select the Guest. In this mode, the phone looks like a new one, without your contacts, browser history and personal applications. After the session is completed, all guest data is deleted automatically. ☑️ Preparation of the phone for transfer to another personEnable the Guest modeCheck the battery ChargeConfirm the availability of the networkDelete temporary filesExecuted: 0 / 4 This is ideal for situations where you need to use a navigator or make a call from someone else's number without giving you full access to the device, and it works faster than creating a second space, since it does not require you to configure a separate profile from scratch. 🛡️ Data security – the guest cannot physically see your files and programs. ⏱️ Temporary access – the profile exists only while active and resets after exit. 📞 Limited functionality - only basic calls and standard applications are available. MIUI The choice of a particular method depends on your goals. Second Space or Parental Controls via Google Family Link, which can also be installed on the Redmi Note 9, is best suited to protect against children. App Lock is enough to protect against colleagues or casual glances. If you need to give your phone away for a while to call, use Guest Mode. Below is a table that compares the main characteristics of the methods examined, which will help you quickly navigate and choose the best option for your situation. Password Request Method Hiding icon Protection Level App Lock Yes No High Hidden Applications No (no password) Yes Average Second Space Yes (to log in) Yes (separation) Maximum Guest Mode Yes (to exit) Yes (temporary) High Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Can I lock an application without a password, just by a fingerprint? Yes, you can turn on the "Unlock by fingerprint" option in the App Lock settings". In this case, when you try to log in to the application, only a finger will be asked, you will not need to enter a password or a pattern lock if the fingerprint is not recognized. What if I forgot the password from App Lock on Redmi Note 9? When you set the password, the system suggested that you link the Mi Account. If you did, click Forgot Password and enter your account details to reset. If your account is not tied, you'll have to do a full reset of your phone settings, which will delete all the data. Do the blocked notification apps see the lock screen? By default, the notification text can be displayed. To hide the content, go to Settings. → Notifications and status bar → Notification format and select "No Name and Content" and the app lock settings also include "Hide notification contents" if the app lock works after the phone restarts? Yes, the App Lock and Second Space settings are saved after the restart, but for security reasons, after the system is fully restarted. MIUI can request the primary unlock password of the screen once before applying biometrics to secure applications. 💡Regularly check the list of applications with access to your data in the Settings section. → Protection of confidentiality → Special permits → To sum up, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 provides a wide range of tools to protect your digital life, and the built-in features of App Lock, Second Space and Guest Mode allow you to manage access to information flexibly. The correct setting of these settings takes only a few minutes, but provides peace of mind and confidence in the safety of your personal data in the future.