Today, your mobile phone is almost like carrying your entire life in your pocket: messaging appsPhotos, bank accounts, work, social media… That's why, Protect apps with a password, PIN, or biometrics It's no longer a luxury, but a basic security necessity. If someone gets hold of your unlocked phone, without any app locks, they have free access to all your personal information.
The good news is that both Android and iOS offer plenty of options for block individual applications and put access control on themWhether with a PIN, pattern, password, fingerprint, or facial recognition. Many manufacturers also include their own systems, and if you don't have them, you can always use comprehensive third-party apps.
Why is it worth protecting your apps with a password?
Our smartphone has become a small pocket computer, where We store highly sensitive data: banking, health, messaging, photos and documentsIf you lend your phone to someone else to play games, make calls, or look at photos, you're unwittingly opening the door to all that content.
Many people share their phone with their children, partner, friends, or co-workers, and Without app-based blocking, it's very easy for someone to end up getting in where they shouldn't.A single lapse in attention or a theft is all it takes for anyone to read your conversations, see your private photos, or check your bank transactions.
Configure a system for Protect apps with a password, PIN, or Face ID It adds a second layer of security on top of the screen lockThus, even if the mobile phone is unlocked, certain applications will still require authentication before opening, greatly reducing the risk of snooping, identity theft, or data leaks.
Basic requirements before blocking applications
Before you start securing apps, it's important to understand that The first step is always to set up a good screen lockWithout it, many app-locking features lose their meaning or can be bypassed more easily.
On most Android and iPhone phones you can choose between PIN, pattern, password, fingerprint, and facial recognitionIdeally, you should combine a strong code with biometric authentication, so that your device is protected from the moment the screen is turned on.
How to password-protect apps on Android
"Pure" Android doesn't include a universal app lock, but the reality is that Almost all major brands add their own app locking system in their customization layers. Furthermore, you can always use third-party apps or features like screen pinning to lend your phone without worry.
General screen lock on Android
On any modern Android mobile you can Set a master lock PIN, pattern, or password It's found in the settings. It's usually under Settings > Security (or Security and Privacy) > Screen lock. From there, you choose your preferred method and, if your phone allows it, you can set up fingerprint or face authentication.
Block apps with native features according to the manufacturer
Many manufacturers incorporate their own system for locking applications or secure spaces that They allow you to protect individual apps with a password or biometrics.The names of the options may change slightly depending on the model or version, but the idea is always the same.
Samsung: Secure Folder and App Lock
Samsung devices with One UI have the feature “Secure Folder” to create an encrypted space within the device. It is usually activated from Settings > Biometrics and security > Secure folder (in some versions within Security and privacy).
During setup you choose a locking method (PIN, pattern, password, or fingerprint) And once created, you can add apps to the Secure Folder that you don't want anyone to open without your permission. Some recent models also include an app lock section that allows you to... Protect apps directly from the security settings without needing to duplicate them in the secure folder.
Xiaomi (MIUI): Improved App Lock
On Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO phones with MIUI, you have a specific section for Block apps from Settings > Applications or Settings > Privacy and protectionDepending on the version, you'll find "Application Lock" inside.
MIUI lets you choose your unlocking method: PIN, pattern, fingerprint, and even facial recognition In versions like MIUI 15. Then you just have to select which apps you want to protect and, from that moment on, every time you open them you will be asked for the configured authentication.
Huawei (EMUI): App lock and private spaces
On Huawei devices with EMUI, security has improved considerably in recent versions like EMUI 14, and the option to Block apps from Settings > Security or Security and privacyThere you will see “Application Lock”.
By activating it you will be able to select PIN, pattern, password, fingerprint, or facial recognition (if your model supports it). Then you choose which apps you want to protect. EMUI also includes features like PrivateSpace, a private space separate from your main profile, which It acts as a "second user" where sensitive data, photos, and applications are separated..
Google Pixel and “pure” Android
Google Pixel phones with Android 14 have taken a step forward with the addition of an individual app block in the privacy settingsIt is usually found in Settings > Privacy > App Lock or similar.
Once activated, you can Configure PIN, pattern, or password for that specific lock. and specify which apps you want to protect. In older models or versions, where this option doesn't exist, the alternative is almost always to use third-party applications.
Oppo and Realme: App blocking in ColorOS and Realme UI
Both Oppo (ColorOS) and Realme (Realme UI) include a “App lock” accessible from Settings > Security or Settings > PrivacyThe menu name may vary slightly depending on the layer version.
Normally you first configure a privacy password, PIN or pattern Then you activate the lock on the apps you want. On many models, you can also use fingerprint and facial recognition to unlock them, making the process much faster and more convenient.
OnePlus: App blocker in OxygenOS
On OnePlus phones, the system for To password-protect apps, go to Settings > Utilities > App LockerFrom there you activate the function and select which applications will be protected.
The lock is combined with the device's primary security method, so that To open those apps you'll need to enter your code or use biometrics configured on the phone.
vivo: app encryption with FuntouchOS
Vivo phones with FuntouchOS include the option to encrypt or lock apps using tools like iManagerWithin this app, there is usually a section called "App Encryption" or something similar.
Once there, you configure a specific password and select the applications you want to protectFrom then on, each login attempt will require the code or authentication you have defined.
Pinning or anchoring an application to the screen (Android 7 to Android 16)
If you want to lend your phone for a specific use (for example, a game for your child) and prevent them from touching anything else, you can use the function of “Screen pinning” or “App pinning” features that have been included in almost all Android versions since version 7.
The adjustment is usually found in routes such as Settings > Security or Security and Privacy > Advanced settings > Screen pinning / App pinningIn Android 13, 14, 15 and 16 the name changes slightly, but the logic is the same: you enable the function and decide if your PIN, pattern or password will be needed to exit locked mode.
Once activated, open the app you want, go to the recent apps view and You use the option to "pin" or "fix" that application on the screenFrom then on, the phone will be locked to that app until you enter the corresponding button combination and your PIN. It's an ideal solution if you only want to allow the use of one app and nothing else.
Third-party apps to block applications on Android
If your device doesn't come with app locking built-in or you want extra features, you can resort to third-party applications specialized in protecting access to other apps. It is important Always download them from the Google Play StoreCarefully review the permits they require and read reviews.
AppLock (DoMobile Lab)
AppLock, from DoMobile Lab, has become one of the Most used tools to block applications on Android after the retirement of Norton App LockIt has tens of millions of downloads and a very high rating.
With AppLock you can Protect virtually any app with a PIN, pattern, or fingerprint, block calls, restrict system settings, hide photos and videos, and even make the AppLock icon itself disappear so that it goes unnoticed.
Among its advanced options it includes a "Intruder-hunting" mode that takes a photo with the front camera if someone tries unsuccessfully to unlock an appas well as automatic blocking of new applications you install, so you don't forget to protect them.
“Application Lock” (InShot) and other alternatives
Another popular option is the app generically called “Application Lock,” developed by InShotIt offers pattern, PIN, and fingerprint locking, with a fairly clear and easy-to-configure interface.
In addition, there are other solutions such as AppLock – Fingerprint (Lock) or integrated options in security and antivirus suitesMany of them add features such as WiFi and Bluetooth blocking, call blocking, intruder detection, hiding notifications, or preventing the app itself from being uninstalled without permission.
It's always a good idea to check what permits they require and Check ratings and reviews from other users to ensure they respect your privacy.If you are particularly concerned about data processing, you can check the privacy section of each application on Google Play.
How to password-protect apps on iPhone and iPad?
iOS has been evolving its approach to security. For years there wasn't an app blocker as such, but with iOS 18 Apple has finally introduced the option to lock and hide apps natively.In previous versions, the key tool was still "Screen Time".
Blocking and hiding apps in iOS 18
With iOS 18 you can Lock individual apps directly from the home screen with Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode.Simply press and hold the icon of the app you want to protect until the context menu opens.
The option to “Require Face ID” (or Touch ID/Code)By activating it, the system will require your authentication every time someone tries to open that application. It's a simple and very effective method for securing banking, social media, email apps, or any other sensitive tool.
In addition, iOS 18 allows completely hide certain apps by choosing “Hide and Require Face ID”This way the app disappears from the home screen, search results, notifications, and Siri suggestions.
To access these hidden apps you have to go to Go to the App Library, enter the "Hidden" folder, and authenticate.This achieves a very high level of discretion, ideal if you want to make it so that no one even sees that you have a certain application installed.
Block apps in iOS 17 and earlier with “Screen Time”
In previous versions (iOS 17 and earlier) there wasn't an app-based block as such, but “Usage time” allowed users to limit applications and require a code to continue using them.It's a commonly used trick to restrict specific apps, both for you and for children.
The basic setup involves going to Settings > Screen time, turning it on, and establish a specific code for that functionThis is different from your iPhone passcode. Then, in “App Usage Limits,” you can add groups of apps or individual apps and set a minimum time for them, for example, 1 minute.
When that minute is reached, the app It appears locked with an hourglass icon and to continue using it you will have to enter the "Usage Time" code.It's not a perfect block (especially if you share the code yourself), but it serves to limit unauthorized access in many cases.
Other control and security options in iOS
In addition to iOS 18 and "Screen Time," there are complementary tools. Many apps, such as banks, password managers, and messaging servicesThey allow you to activate Face ID or Touch ID within their own settings.
There are also apps like Lockdown Apps and similar solutions that They offer secure environments within iOSHowever, Apple severely limits what a third-party app can do with other apps, making these solutions more restricted than on Android.
Protect WhatsApp and other messaging apps
WhatsApp is one of the biggest weaknesses if someone gains access to your phone, because It contains private conversations, documents, photos, and even employment information.Fortunately, the app itself has its own built-in locking system, both on Android and iPhone.
On Android you can access WhatsApp > Settings > Privacy > Fingerprint lockOnce activated, the app will require your fingerprint every time it opens (depending on the waiting time you choose: immediately, after 1 minute, etc.).
On iPhone the process is similar: WhatsApp > Settings > Privacy > Screen lockFrom there you can activate Face ID or Touch ID to access the app. This way, even if the phone is unlocked and someone else is using it, WhatsApp will still require biometric authentication.
Keep in mind that This blocking does not necessarily hide the content of the notificationsIf you want to prevent anyone from reading messages on your lock screen, you'll need to check the notification settings in both your system and WhatsApp to hide the text of incoming messages.
Other applications such as Telegram, banking apps, and storage services (Drive, Dropbox, etc.) also They include internal PIN or biometric usage options in their security or privacy settingsReviewing this section in each critical app is usually a very good idea.
Extra tips to keep your phone and apps safe
Beyond blocking applications, there are a number of best practices that They make all the difference when it comes to protecting your personal data on your mobile phone.These are small gestures that, added together, greatly increase the level of security.
It's fundamental Keep your operating system and apps always up to dateMany updates fix security flaws that could allow third parties to bypass blocks or exploit vulnerabilities.
It is also recommended periodically review application permissions.Some apps request access to your camera, microphone, location, or contacts unnecessarily. Limiting these permissions reduces the amount of information each app can access.
Finally, always be careful about where you download security applications from. Install only from official stores (Google Play Store or App Store)Check the permissions, read reviews, and be wary of miracle tools that promise more than is technically possible.
Taking a few minutes to set up PIN, password, or biometric locks on your most sensitive apps, taking advantage of your phone's native features, and using good security apps will result in enormous peace of mind. Your personal information will remain protected even if you lend your phone, lose it, or it falls into the wrong hands.. Share this information so others know how to protect their apps with a password or PIN.