If you're concerned about privacy on your phone, you're not alone: between photos, work documents, and conversations, your phone has become a digital catch-all. When a PIN or fingerprint isn't enough, vault apps are the perfect complement. to hide files and even applications without leaving any obvious trace.
These tools create a “secret space” within the device itself to store sensitive items with another layer of protection. In addition to hiding photos and videos, many allow you to organize folders, encrypt content, synchronize in the cloud or camouflage yourself with innocent icons. (like a calculator) so that no one suspects.
What is a file-hiding vault app and how does it work?
A mobile vault is basically a digital safe protected by PIN, pattern or biometrics that lives inside your phone. You open the app, validate your identity, and access your private albums, documents, notes, or even a hidden app drawer.
- Additional blocking: PIN, pattern, fingerprint or face to open the vault (and in some cases, album lock).
- Encryption: Advanced protection of photos, videos and files (locally and/or in a private cloud).
- Disguised icon: calculator, news, or others; you can even hide the icon or change it to another one.
- Decoy vault: a “fake” space with harmless content to deceive curious people.
- Several vaults: Organization by folders, categories, or separate vaults with different passwords.
- Extra features: Private browser, private camera, media player, hidden notes and contacts.
- Cloud copy: to sync across multiple devices and recover data if you lose your phone.
There are even ingenious proposals such as a messaging app that disguises itself as a news platform (NewsTalk)Its icon and notifications look like headlines, but if you long-press a specific button and enter your code, the hidden chat appears with private calls and video calls, the files of which don't go to the gallery.
Advantages and real uses
Beyond hiding a couple of photos, a well-chosen vault helps you to save space, organize and protect Personal or professional content. For entrepreneurs and professionals, this can make a difference when it comes to sensitive documentation, contracts, or IDs.
- Saving space- Some solutions detect duplicates or compress photos, and if you enable the cloud, you free up local storage.
- Order by folders: Private albums, tags, and categories to find everything right away.
- Synchronization: Accessibility from multiple devices via encrypted private cloud.
- Serious encryption: Integrity and confidentiality reinforced with modern algorithms.
There are also everyday use cases: Families who share a device, couples who want more privacy, or those who keep personal documents (ID, cards, PDFs) out of reach of curious people.
The best vault apps for Android and iOS to hide files
We've compiled and cross-referenced the best from various sources so you can make informed choices. You'll find free options with ads, premium plans, and apps designed for photos, videos, and even hiding other apps..
Vaulty (Android)
A classic on Android to protect your gallery. Allows you to save photos and videos with an additional password and create separate vaults with different keys if you want to segment by topic or sensitivity.
- Simple interface and intuitive to move and manage files.
- Automatic blocking by time or when turning off the screen to avoid distractions.
- Stealth mode: Hide the icon in the app drawer to make it look less noticeable.
- Optional online backup to recover data if you lose or change your mobile phone.
If you are looking for something effective and easy, Vaulty delivers without complications and is available on Google Play.
Private Photo Vault (Android and iOS)
Very popular for its balance between security and usability. Password protect photos and videos, allows you to create private albums and add a fake screen lock to mislead.
- Biometric unlock: face or fingerprint to enter quickly and safely.
- Intruder alerts: photo and location of failed attempts.
- Private browser and player with support for GIFs.
The interface is modern, with good customization options. Available on Google Play and App Store.
Keepsafe (Android and iOS)
More than a photo vault, a complete suite to protect photos, videos and documents with PIN, pattern or fingerprint and a strong focus on encrypted cloud backup.
- Secure sync between devices via encrypted private cloud.
- Face-down auto lock: : locks when the phone is placed face down.
- Safe Send: share by controlling the viewing time (they self-destruct after 20 s).
- Hide the “recent” app for greater discretion.
- Guest mode: Show only selected albums to third parties.
- Disappearance mode: deletes everything after several failed attempts.
The Premium plan adds extra control and recovery. Album Lock (PIN per album), Break-In Alerts (photos of intruders and log of attempts), Fake PIN (decoy vault), Private Cloud with up to 10.000 items, Space Saver (compress and upload originals) and Trash Recovery to recover accidentally deleted files. It also offers ad-free experience y custom album covers.
It is one of the favorite options by user volume. If you're looking for secure cloud and advanced features, it's a solid bet..
Camouflaged calculators and “disguised” vaults
This group brings together several apps that They pose as a fully functional calculator, but they unlock your vault by entering a PIN and pressing “=”. Perfect for going unnoticed.
Calculator – Hide Photo and Video (Android)
A normal looking calculator that Hide photos, videos, audio, documents, notes and contacts in a PIN-protected secret folder.
- Organize by folders and import from the gallery with a “+” button.
- Photo of intruders: Capture the one who fails the key, with time stamp.
- Simple restoration to unhide when you need it.
- Uninstall protection: Use device administrator permissions to prevent unauthorized erasure.
- Data only on the device: It is essential to make a backup before changing your phone or performing a “factory reset”.
The developer offers email support and keeps the app evolving.
Calculator# (Android and iOS)
Hides photos, videos, contacts, documents and audios under a calculator keypad. If you forget the password, there's a recovery tool.
- Panic switch: Shake your phone and switch apps instantly.
- Integrated password in the calculator interface itself.
Its focus on camouflage and the “panic switch” makes it very useful in compromising situations.
Secret Calculator Vault
Under its calculator icon, hide apps, contacts, media, messages and passwordsOnce inside, it allows for folders, labels, and flexible organization.
- Limit in the free version (reduced space) which is expanded with payment.
- Managing hidden apps in addition to files.
Ideal if in addition to photos and videos you want hide entire apps of sight.
Secret Photo Vault (iOS)
Hide photos, videos, passwords, contacts and browser information under a calculator. It doesn't use external servers: everything stays in internal storage.
- Key Warning: If you uninstall, its contents will be deleted; export first.
- Three barriers: PIN, Touch ID and Face ID.
- Simple interface with advanced paid features (one-week trial).
For those who prioritize that the data never leaves the device.
Calculator Vault: App Hider (Android)
The focus here is Hide and launch apps from a calculator protected by a six-digit code, as well as saving photos and videos in personalized folders.
- Free with ads, quite present.
- Hidden App Manager with “pitcher” type experience.
The convenient option if your priority is hide other apps and not just multimedia.
My Secret Folder (iOS)
Elegant vault for iPhone and iPad that hide photos, videos and notes with password or facial recognition, and adds extra privacy.
- Intruder alerts and incognito mode.
- Private chamber which is stored directly in the vault, without going through the reel.
- Private browser with ad blocker and dark mode.
- Advanced organization by colors and labels; import/export with other apps or the cloud.
If you value careful design with professional features, is a distinguished alternative.
Secret Photo Album · 1Locker (iOS)
Guarda photos, videos, notes, web pages and passwords behind its calculator interface, with PIN, Touch ID or Face ID.
- Data on the device: If you delete the app, you lose any unexported content.
- Cloud copy option through in-app purchases.
- Nice design and easy to use.
Perfect for iOS users who They seek simplicity and good experience.
Vault Hide
Widely downloaded and well-known, it focuses on the essentials: App Lock and Secure Folder for photos, videos and files.
- Decoy vault to deceive curious people.
- Blocking app by app with password or pattern.
A direct proposal, ideal if you want Protect specific apps and have a vault for your gallery.
AppLock
If your main goal is shield messaging apps, gallery or networks, AppLock is a reliable veteran.
- App blocking with passwords.
- secret folder for private content.
- Camouflaged icon to reduce suspicion.
It is the lightweight alternative when The priority is to lock your most used apps.
NewsTalk (messaging disguised as news)
Different bet: its icon looks like that of a medium and even Your notifications simulate “breaking news”, but by holding down the reload button and entering your code, you access a hidden messenger with chats, calls, and video calls.
- No trace in the gallery: : Media files do not appear outside.
- Discreet access and password protected.
If you're worried about looking suspicious, This total camouflage approach is very convincing.
Are they safe? Signs you should check for
In general, reputable vaults are secure, but Not all of them offer the same level. Before installing, check:
- Encryption: that clearly indicate the use of strong encryption for local and cloud data.
- Authentication: Biometric options, PIN per album and automatic lock.
- Updates: pace of security patches and improvements.
- Privacy : transparent policy on what data they collect and where it is stored.
- Reviews and critiques: User reviews and analysis from trusted media.
Note that Some apps store only on the deviceIt's great for privacy, but it requires discipline: export or back up your data before uninstalling or resetting your phone so you don't lose everything.
Pro tips for using a vault wisely and hiding files
- Don't overload it: The more orderly, the more useful and less suspicious.
- strong passwordsAvoid “1234”; combine numbers and, if possible, activate biometrics.
- Try the decoy vault: Check how credible it is before you trust it.
- Activate the private cloud if you are going to change your mobile phone or fear losses.
- Keep the app updated: reduces vulnerabilities with each version.
- Activate intrusion alerts and “face down” lock if your app allows it.
And if your vault uses administrator permissions to prevent uninstallation, Make sure you understand how to revoke them if you ever want to uninstall without any problems.
Parental Controls: Risk and How to Manage Them
These apps were born for privacy, but They have become popular among minors to avoid parental controls.On social networks like TikTok, there are plenty of tutorials showing how to set them up and access them with secret codes.
For families, it is advisable to combine technology and education: Use a good parental control app, talk at home about responsible use, and set clear rules. (schedules, allowed apps, camera use, social networks) helps reduce risks.
- Parental control tools: Block access to certain apps, including vaults.
- Continuous dialogue: explain the consequences of accessing inappropriate content.
- Agreed rules: : schedules, websites and apps allowed, reasonable limits.
- Construction inspection: Review usage and detect suspicious activities.
- open communication: that minors feel confident in telling problems.
If you suspect a vault is installed, there are useful clues:
- Various calculators on the device is a recurring alert.
- Use time: Checks Digital Wellbeing (Android) and detects apps with unusual names and high usage.
- app sizeA normal calculator weighs very little; if it takes up tens of MB, it may hide extra functions.
Some articles even intersperse off-topic commercial messages (such as 5G rate promotions from carriers), so focus on technical and educational sources when looking for guidance.
Legal and ethical aspects of hiding files
Using a vault is not illegal; the important thing is the use you make of itDon't use it for illegal purposes or to conceal conduct that violates your own or others' rights. In work environments, respect your company's security and privacy policies.
Quick FAQ about hiding files on Android
Are they really safe? Yes, if you choose reputable apps with reliable encryption and consistent updates. Be wary of clones without reviews or a clear privacy policy.
Do you offer backup? Many do (for example, Keepsafe with its encrypted private cloud). Others only work locally: if you uninstall them, you lose anything you haven't exported.
What is a decoy vault? A fake “chest” within the app with harmless content. If someone forces you to open it, you will see only trivial files..
They are for free? Most have a free version with limits or ads. Advanced features (multiple vaults, cloud, alerts) are usually paid..
How do you access the camouflaged ones? It depends: in calculators, you enter a PIN and “=”. In news apps, There may be specific gestures like holding down a button and then enter the key.
What if I forget my password? Many offer recuperación; keep your credentials in a safe place so you don't get locked out.
When it comes to hiding files on Android (and iOS too), it's important to combine a reliable vault app with good practices: Choose tools with encryption and updates, enable features like decoy vaults or intrusion alerts, and don't forget backups. if your choice saves locally.
With options like Vaulty, Private Photo Vault, Keepsafe, or hidden calculators (Calculator Vault, Calculator#, 1Locker, Secret Photo Vault, and the like), plus offerings like Vault-Hide, AppLock, or even NewsTalk-style hidden messaging, you can adjust the level of discretion and security to your liking without complicating your life. Share this guide and more people will know how to use apps to hide files on Android.