Creating a hidden folder on Xiaomi smartphones is a challenge that many users want to protect personal photos, documents or correspondence. Unlike iOS, where functionality is limited, MIUI firmware offers several built-in and third-party solutions. However, not all methods are equally reliable: some folders remain accessible through the file manager, others require root rights, and others can fly off after resetting.
In this article, we will discuss 5 working ways to hide a folder on Xiaomi (including the Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Mi 11 and others with MIUI 12-14), assess their security and limitations. We will pay special attention to methods without root, since most users do not want to risk the warranty. You will also learn how to return file access if you forgot your password, and why some applications from the Play Market can be more dangerous than it seems.
1. Built-in "Secure folder" function in MIUI
The easiest way to hide files on Xiaomi is to use the built-in Secure Folder (formerly called the Private Folder) feature, which is available on all devices with MIUI 12 and later, does not require additional applications to be installed, and works without root rights. The folder is encrypted with a password, fingerprint or pattern lock, and its contents are not displayed in a standard Explorer.
To activate the function:
- Open Settings → Privacy → Secure folder.
- Click "Enable" and set a password (minimum 4 characters).
- Add files via the Add button or drag them from the gallery/conductor.
⚠️ Limitations of method:
- 🔍 Files remain in their original location (just hidden from view) and can be found through Explorer. → Settings → Show hidden files if you know the way.
- 🔄 After resetting the settings to the factory folder will disappear, and the files will remain in place without encryption.
- 📱 Does not work on devices with MIUI for the global version (for example, POCO M5), If the function is disabled by the region.
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If the protected folder doesn’t appear in the settings, upgrade MIUI to the latest version or install regional firmware via Fastboot.
2. Hiding the folder through Explorer (without password)
If you just need to hide a folder from the eyes of the eye, but not protect it with a password, you can use the standard MIUI Explorer, which is suitable for temporarily hiding files, for example, before transferring the phone to another person, but it does not protect data from targeted search.
Instructions:
- Open the Explorer and find the folder you want to hide.
- Keep your finger on the folder → select “Rename”.
- Add a dot to the beginning of the title (e.g.,.Secret Photos).
- The folder will disappear from the main view. To return it, turn on the display of hidden files in the Explorer settings.
⚠️ Attention: this method only works for folders in internal memory. SD-Hidden folders can be displayed in some file managers (e.g. Solid Explorer).
How to hide a folder on SD-map?
3. Encrypting folder with the help of the archiver (ZIP with password)
One of the most reliable ways to hide files is to file them in a password archive, which is firmware-independent and works on any device, including Xiaomi, Samsung or even iPhone, and the main advantage is that files are fully encrypted and not accessible without a password, even if the archive is copied to another device.
Step-by-step:
- Install an archiver (such as ZArchiver or RAR from Play Market).
- Select files/folders → press “Squeeze”.
- Choose the ZIP or 7z format (the latter is more reliable).
- Set a password (minimum 8 characters with numbers and letters).
- After creating the archive, delete the original files.
🔹 Pros of the method:
- 🔒 Full protection from viewing without password.
- 📲 It works on any device and OS.
- 🔄 The archive can be moved to the cloud or another phone.
⚠️ Cons:
- ⏳ Longer than other methods (you need to archive/unpack).
- 📂 Inconvenient for frequent file changes (you will have to recreate the archive).
4. Third-party applications for hiding folders
If you don't like the built-in MIUI features, you can use third-party apps, the most popular ones are Hide It Pro (Audio Manager), Vaulty, GalleryVault, and they offer additional features, such as masking as a calculator or player, but they have their own risks.
🔹 Top.-3 file-hide:
| Annex | Features | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Hide It Pro | Masquerades as an audio player, supports password and fingerprint | Advertising in the free version, possible data leakage |
| Vaulty | Automatic hiding of photos from the gallery, cloud backup | Paid subscription for full functionality |
| GalleryVault | Encrypting files, protection against screenshots | A complex interface, sometimes glitching at MIUI |
⚠️ Note: Many file hiding apps request excessive permissions (access to contacts, SMS, For example, Hide It Pro was in a scandal in 2022 over the collection of user data.
☑️ Secure installation of an application to hide files
5. Hiding folders through ADB (for advanced users)
If you're ready to work with ADB (Android Debug Bridge), you can hide the folder at the system level without root permissions. This method is suitable for power users, because it requires a PC connection and knowledge of commands. The advantage is that the folder will be hidden even from file managers, but will remain accessible through ADB.
Instructions:
- Enable USB debugging in Settings → About Phone → MIUI Version (click 7 times) → Additional → For Developers.
- Connect your phone to your PC and open the command line in the folder with ADB.
- Enter the command to hide the folder: adb shell "mv" /sdcard/Names Dad. /sdcard/.Names Dad"
- To return the folder, use: adb shell "mv /sdcard/.Fanders /sdcard/NamesFolders"
⚠️ Importantly, this method doesn't encrypt files, it only hides them from standard viewing. MTP file can become visible.
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The ADB method is only suitable for temporary hiding of files. Use encryption (archives or specialized applications) for reliable protection.
6.What to do if I forgot the password from the hidden folder?
If you lose access to a secure MIUI folder or password archive, recovery options depend on the method of hiding. In most cases, it is impossible to return files without a password, but there are a few exceptions.
🔹 Methods of restoring access:
- 🔑 For the built-in secure folder. MIUI: Reset your password through Settings → Accounts. → Mi Account. → Security if you have a Mi Account attached).
- 📂 For hidden folders through a point: enable the display of hidden files in Explorer.
- 🔐 For ZIP/RAR Archives: Use programs like ArchPR or John the Ripper ~10–30% password-free).
- 📱 For third-party applications: Try to restore access via email (if there was a binding).
⚠️ Note: If you have used third-party encryption applications (such as GalleryVault) and it is deleted, the files may be permanently lost.
7. How do you check if the folder is actually hidden?
A common mistake users make is to think that the folder is securely hidden, when in fact it is accessible through other methods.
- Connect your phone to your PC and check the visibility of the folder through this computer → Internal Storage.
- Install a third-party file manager (like FX File Explorer) and enable the display of hidden files.
- Try to find the folder through a search in MIUI Explorer (sometimes hidden files are indexed).
- If you used an archive with a password, try opening it on another device.
🔹 Signs of unreliable concealment:
- 🔍 The folder is visible when connected to the PC.
- 📂 Files are displayed in the gallery after rebooting.
- 🔄 The Hidden App Asks for Too Many Permits.
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The most reliable methods of descending are: 1) Password Archive (7z/ZIP), 2) Built-in secure folder MIUI, 3) Third-party applications with encryption, 4) Hiding through ADB, 5) Rename with a dot.