Xiaomi: Set Up a Privacy Protection Password

Your Xiaomi's screen lock stops someone from opening the phone itself, but it does not stop them from opening individual apps once the device is unlocked. The Privacy protection password closes that gap by adding a second lock in front of sensitive apps and hidden content.

This second password lives inside Settings ➔ Passwords & security ➔ Privacy protection password. Turning it on with Enable Use Privacy protection password walks you through creating a pattern or code that is separate from your main screen lock.

During setup MIUI asks whether to link the password to your Mi account. Do this if you plan to keep using the feature, because it is the only supported way to reset a forgotten privacy pattern later.

You also choose whether fingerprint unlock works for this second password, which keeps daily access fast without weakening the extra layer around protected apps.

If the Mi account is linked, a forgotten privacy password can be reset through account recovery. Without a linked account, recovery options are limited and may require clearing data for the affected app instead.

Use this second lock for apps that show personal photos, notes, or files. For overall device security keep relying on your main screen lock; the privacy password is a targeted extra layer, not a replacement for it.