How to password applications on Xiaomi: from built-in tools to third-party solutions

Privacy protection on Xiaomi smartphones is becoming more and more relevant: private messaging apps, banking apps, photo gallery – all of which require strong protection from prying eyes. Fortunately, MIUI offers several ways to block access to applications, and for advanced features, you can use third-party solutions. But how to choose the best method? And why does the standard App Lock sometimes refuse to work?

In this article, we’ll look at 5 working ways to password apps on Xiaomi, Redmi, Poco and Black Shark – from built-in features to hidden settings and alternative programs. We’ll focus on the nuances of what to do if a password is forgotten, how to bypass locks in emergencies, and why some applications (such as Google Pay or SberBank Online) can ignore MIUI settings.

1. Built-in App Lock in MIUI: How to Enable and Configure

The most obvious and secure way is to use the standard App Lock (also known as App Lock in Russian firmware), a feature available on all Xiaomi devices with MIUI 8 and later, including the latest versions of MIUI 14 and HyperOS. The main advantage is that you do not need to install third-party programs, which reduces the risk of data leaks.

To activate the lock:

1. Open the Settings. → Passwords and security.
2. Select App Lock (or App Lock in English).
3. When you first start, the system will suggest creating a pattern lock, a PIN code, or using a fingerprint.
4. After setting up, select the apps you want to block (such as WhatsApp, Gallery, Settings).

An important nuance: App Lock in MIUI does not block notifications from blocked applications – their content will be visible on the lock screen. To hide notifications, additionally go to Settings → Notifications → Privacy of Notifications and turn on the option to Hide content for selected programs.

Make sure the latest version is installed on the device. MIUI|Create a backup copy of important data|Remember your password or write it down in a safe place.|Check the fingerprint sensor (if you plan to use it)-->

2.Why App Lock doesn't work: Common problems and solutions

Sometimes, users find that App Lock doesn't block apps or resets settings all the time, and here are the typical reasons and ways to fix them:

If the problem persists, try resetting the App Lock settings:

Settings → Passwords and security → Application lock → Settings (⚙) → Reset password

⚠️ Note: Some Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi Note 10 Pro or Poco) X3 Pro) after resetting the password, App Lock may require you to enter a Mi Account!

3. Alternative ways to lock: Second Space and hidden folders

If App Lock doesn’t suit you, MIUI has two more built-in privacy protection tools:

• 🔒 Second Space: Creates a separate desktop with its own apps, settings, and password, useful if you want to completely isolate personal data from workers. → Special facilities → Second Space.
• 📁 Hidden folders in the Gallery: Allows you to hide photos and videos with a password. → Hide and install PIN code.
• 🔑 Private mode in File Manager: similarly hides files in Explorer. → Private vault.

Second Space is especially useful for Xiaomi owners with children or colleagues who sometimes pick up their phone.

• A separate password or pattern lock;
• Your own set of applications (for example, only messengers and a browser);
• Time limits for use.

Built-in App Lock|Second Space (Second Profile)|Hidden folders in Gallery|Third-party applications (e.g. AppLock)|Do not use lock--->

4. Third-party applications for blocking: pros and cons

If the built-in MIUI features are not enough, you can install third-party programs.

• 🔐 AppLock (by DoMobile Lab): Supports locking by fingerprint, face, password. There is a hacking feature that takes photos of someone trying to find a password.
• 🛡️ Norton App Lock: From a well-known antivirus, integrated with Norton Security for comprehensive protection.
• 🔒 Smart AppLock: Allows you to block not only applications, but also individual functions (for example, mobile data or Wi-Fi).

However, third-party solutions have risks:

⚠️ Note: Some blocking applications (especially from unknown sources) may steal data or display hidden ads. 4PDA or XDA Developers and only use Google Play programs with a rating above 4.5.

Example of setting up AppLock:

1. Download the app from Google Play.
2. At the first start, set a master password.
3. In the Applications section, select the programs to block.
4. In Settings → Block configure the unlock method (fingerprint, face, PIN).

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If you use a third-party AppLock, add it to the battery optimization exceptions (Settings → Battery → Battery Optimization), otherwise the lock may not work.

5. How to password system applications (Settings, Phone, Messages)

Many users want to block not only messengers, but also system utilities - Settings, Phone, Messages or Contacts.

• ⚙️ Settings: B MIUI You can block access to Settings via App Lock, but this can create problems when configuring your device.
• 📞 Phone and Messages: Blocked by the standard App Lock, but call notifications and SMS will remain visible on the lock screen.
• 📱 Lock screen: To hide notifications completely, use Settings → Lock screen → Locking style → Confidentiality.

For Xiaomi models on Android 12+ (for example, Xiaomi 12T or Redmi K50), the “Privacy Mode” function is available:

Settings → Passwords and security → Confidential mode → Enable

In this mode, when the screen is blocked, the following are hidden:

• Content of notifications;
• Icons of blocked applications (they turn gray)
• Previous screens in multitasking.

6 What to do if you forget your App Lock or Second Space password

Forgotten passwords are one of the most frustrating situations, and fortunately, Xiaomi has several ways to recover them:

1. Reset via Mi Account: On the password entry screen, click Forgot the password?. Enter the data from the Mi Account account associated with the device. Follow the instructions for resetting.

Recovery reset (if the Mi Account is not tied):

• Turn off the phone.
• Press Power + Volume up to enter Recovery.
• Choose Wipe & Reset → Wipe All Data (complete reset!).
• Bypassing ADB (for advanced users): If USB debugging is enabled on the device, you can delete the password via the command: adb shell pm clear com.miui.guardprovider This command will reset the App Lock settings, but will not affect other data.

7.Comparison of blocking methods: which one to choose

To determine the optimal method of protection, compare the key parameters:

For most Xiaomi users, the best solution is a combination of:

• App Lock for instant messengers and banking applications;
• Hidden folders for photos;
• Second Space – if you want to completely isolate your work data from your personal data.

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On HyperOS devices (such as Xiaomi 14 or Redmi K70), the App Lock feature is integrated deeper into the system and is more stable than in older versions of MIUI.

FAQ: Frequent questions about blocking apps on Xiaomi