Before you start
- A fingerprint (or face unlock) set up in your phone settings
Method 1 Use the built-in App lock (Xiaomi, OnePlus, Oppo, Realme, Vivo, Honor)
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Step 1: Find App lock
Open Settings and search for App lock. Typical locations: Xiaomi Settings > Apps > App lock; OnePlus/Oppo/Realme Settings > Privacy > App lock; Vivo Settings > Security > Privacy and app encryption.
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Step 2: Set a password
Create a privacy password or PIN when asked, then turn on Unlock with fingerprint.
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Step 3: Choose the apps
Switch on the apps you want to protect, such as WhatsApp, Gallery, Messages or Photos.
Method 2 Samsung: use Secure Folder
Samsung doesn’t lock individual apps outside Secure Folder. Some Galaxy models in certain regions also offer app lock through the Good Lock app.
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Step 1: Set up Secure Folder
Go to Settings > Security and privacy > More security settings > Secure Folder, sign in to your Samsung account and choose a lock type with fingerprint.
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Step 2: Add apps
Open Secure Folder, tap + and add apps. They’re installed as separate copies that only open after unlocking the folder.
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Step 3: Use the secure copy
Sign in to the app inside Secure Folder and remove or sign out of the normal copy if you want it fully private.
Method 3 Pixel and Android 15+: Private space
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Step 1: Set up Private space
Go to Settings > Security & privacy > Private space, follow the steps and choose to use your screen lock or a separate lock.
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Step 2: Install apps inside
Open Private space at the bottom of your app list and install the apps you want to keep private.
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Step 3: Lock it
Private space locks automatically, and its apps’ notifications stay hidden while it’s locked.
Method 4 Use an app’s own fingerprint lock
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Step 1: WhatsApp
Settings > Privacy > App lock (Android) and turn on Unlock with biometric. You can also lock individual chats: press and hold a chat > Lock chat.
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Step 2: Telegram
Settings > Privacy and Security > Passcode Lock, then enable fingerprint.
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Step 3: Banking and password apps
Most already require a fingerprint; check their security settings.
Troubleshooting
My phone has no App lock
Use Private space (Android 15+), Secure Folder (Samsung), or the app’s own lock. Updating your phone can add the feature.
The fingerprint option is greyed out
Add a fingerprint first in Settings > Security > Fingerprint unlock.
Frequently asked questions
Can I lock the Gallery app?
Yes with App lock on most brands. On Pixel, use Google Photos’ Locked Folder for private photos instead.
What if someone knows my PIN?
Use a separate password for App lock or Secure Folder that’s different from your screen lock.
Summary
Search Settings for App lock first; most Xiaomi, OnePlus, Oppo and Vivo phones have it. Samsung users can use Secure Folder, Pixel users Private space, and WhatsApp has its own App lock and Lock chat.
