Blocking applications on Android: description of the top 8 programs and which one to choose

Sometimes it would be nice to be able to block certain applications that may contain your personal data. For what? Well, for example, if you give the phone to your friend to show a photo. Or, say, from children, who can be left with access to games and YouTube and prohibited from touching everything else. Now we will tell you about the simplest ways to block applications.

We hide personal data from prying eyes

App Lock

A program available for download through the Play Market. It looks like an app store, so even a beginner can easily understand the interface. Through this program, the user has the opportunity to set a password for any application installed on the phone.

In addition, App Lock provides additional security features. In particular, there is an option to shuffle the buttons for entering a password at each subsequent login. That is, if an attacker tries to gain access to the software by remembering the location of the buttons when typing, he will not succeed. To log in, he must know the code, and no additional means will help solve the problem.

This is not all that makes App Lock stand out from other similar software. The developers have provided for message masking, as well as the presence of its own storage for the safe placement of documents and multimedia user data. The only drawback of the utility is advertising, which seems too intrusive.

7. FingerSecurity

FingerSecurity is one of the best app lockers for Android due to its huge number of features. The feature-rich app allows you to lock apps using your fingerprint, and you can also enable advanced security features to make sure parts of the app and app data don't show up on the recents screen. There is also an advanced security feature to prevent deletions. The app also allows you to set a timeout, which is a delay in locking apps again, as well as options for a themed fingerprint indicator and more.

The application is available in a free version, but its capabilities are quite limited. However, you can get the Premium version, which offers more theme options, such as the ability to change the lock page background. It also offers options for setting safe locations, detecting intruders, setting up a false alarm, and more. Overall, the app definitely has a lot of features, but I did encounter a few performance hiccups in my use, so that's something to keep in mind.

App Locker

Another blocker with a name similar to the previously discussed program. True, here we are dealing with much more meager functionality and an ill-conceived interface. The main task of App Locker is to give the smartphone owner the opportunity to protect access to applications.

Security options include a password, pattern key, PIN code or fingerprint. In this regard, App Locker gives a head start to other blockers, but the software is no different. Perhaps the function of blocking pop-up notifications can also be useful. But the shortcomings have not gone away: advertising banners and an English-language menu.

Protecting apps on Android

Issues of personal data protection are quite acute on modern mobile devices, especially given the availability of a contactless payment system using a smartphone. Cases of phone theft are still not uncommon, so losing bank card numbers along with an expensive device is not the most pleasant prospect. The first line of defense in this case is blocking the smartphone, and the second is programs that allow you to block access to individual applications.

Smart AppLock (SpSoft)

A powerful security application with rich functionality for blocking or hiding individual applications. You can add an unlimited number of them (even if they are all installed on the device).

You can protect them from unauthorized access with a password, PIN code, graphic key (18x18 square is supported) and fingerprint (on devices with an appropriate sensor). The latest versions of the application have added the option to set a separate password for each protected application, support for profiles, and also the sometimes useful ability to take a photo of the person who tried to access your device. There is fine-tuning of protection, up to turning it on and off according to a schedule or the inability to remove Smart AppLock without confirmation. There are three disadvantages - the presence of paid content and advertising, as well as poor-quality localization into Russian.

App Locker (burakgon)

An application that combines a nice design and ease of use. It may not be the most feature-rich blocker out there, but it's definitely one of the easiest to use. When you first launch the application, you will be asked to enable its own service in the device administrators - this is necessary to protect against deletion. The range of features itself is not too large - a list of protected and unprotected applications, as well as settings for the type of protection (graphic and text passwords, PIN code or fingerprint sensor). Among the characteristic features, we note the blocking of Facebook Messenger pop-up windows, the ability to block system software, as well as support for themes. The disadvantages, alas, are traditional - advertising and the lack of Russian language.

LOCKit

One of the most advanced solutions on the market, allowing you to block not only individual applications, but also, for example, videos and photos (by adding them to a separate secure container, similar to Samsung Knox). There is also an interesting function of masking application protection (for example, under an error window). In addition, it is possible to hide notifications to avoid data leakage, as well as block access to SMS and call lists. There is also a photograph of the intruder who tried to gain access to the phone or tablet. In addition to the direct functions of blocking applications, there is also additional functionality such as cleaning the system from garbage. The disadvantages in this case are also typical - a lot of advertising, the presence of paid content and poor translation into Russian.

CM Locker

An application from the creators of the popular system cleaner Clean Master. In addition to the basic functionality, it has a number of additional features - for example, linking to a Facebook account, which is used as a means of protecting and managing a stolen or lost device. The program has its own lock screen, which has a lot of additional functionality - notification management, weather forecast display and personalization. The security capabilities themselves are also quite high: the standard set of “password-code-fingerprint” is supplemented by graphic key options and fingerprint sensor gestures. A nice addition is integration with another Cheetah Mobile application, CM Security - the result is the ultimate security solution. The impression of it can be spoiled by advertising, which often appears unexpectedly, as well as unstable operation on budget devices.

AppLock

Another advanced option for protecting applications and confidential information from unauthorized access. Made in a very original way, in the spirit of the Google Play Store. This program also stands out for its advanced protection capabilities. For example, there is an option to randomly arrange the keys on the password typing keyboard. The developers also did not forget about modes for masking messages about a blocked application. There is also storage for photos and videos, as well as blocking of settings and access to calls and SMS. The application does not require hardware, so it is also suitable for budget smartphones. True, annoying advertising can alienate many potential users.

Applock Applock

A beautiful and functional application for protecting personal information. The design truly claims to be the best of the entire selection. Despite its beauty, it works quickly and without failures. The functionality is practically no different from competitors - password levels, masking of blocking messages, selective protection of individual applications, a snapshot of the attacker and much more. The big fly in the ointment is the limitations of the free version: a significant part of the features are simply not available, in addition to this, advertising is also displayed. However, if you only need to block applications, the functionality of the free option will be sufficient.

LOCX

Security software, distinguished primarily by its tiny size - the installation file takes about 2 MB, and already installed on the system - less than 10 MB. In this size, the developers managed to add almost all the features of larger competitors. There was a place for full blocking of access to applications, and for photos of people trying to access your phone, and for personal photo storage (other multimedia is not supported). Customization is also available - you can configure the behavior of the application depending on the location or connection to a specific network, as well as change the appearance. The free version contains ads and lacks some of the features of the Pro version.

Hexlock App Lock

A simple but quite powerful application that differs from its competitors in a number of features. The first is that all software installed on the device is automatically divided into categories. The second is an unlimited number of profiles (for example, for work, for home, for travel). The third feature is event logging: blocking, unlocking, attempts to gain access. Regarding its own security functions, everything is top notch: protection of not only applications, but also the blocker itself from removal, choice of password type, multimedia storage... In general, complete stuffing. The disadvantages are the lack of Russian language and the presence of advertising, which can be turned off by sending a certain amount to the developers. In addition, the application is not available on the Play Store, so those who want to use Hexlock App Lock will need to download and install it from one of the secure third-party resources.

Private Zone

Also quite an advanced application for blocking confidential information. In addition to the actual ability to protect applications and personal data, it has such a non-standard feature as call blocking (blacklist). Another unusual addition is the ability to create a guest space with minimal privileges (again, an association with Knox). The anti-theft system in Privat Zone is one of the most powerful among its colleagues, and to activate it you do not need to link to a social network account. The remaining protection options are no different from competitors. Disadvantages are also typical - the dominance of advertising and the presence of paid options, in addition, at the moment the application is not available for downloading from the Google Play Store, this can only be done from third-party services.

There are other applications designed to protect private data, but for the most part they exactly repeat the capabilities of those described above. However, if you know a really unusual blocker, share its name in the comments.

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AppLock

This is a different application than App Lock, discussed earlier in the material. The vast majority of blockers have similar names, which makes it easy to get confused about them. However, all the cards are revealed by the functionality of the utilities. This program looks much simpler in comparison with the competitor's software of the same name. The only function is to set a password, although it is implemented well. Moreover, the developers took care of the Russification of the program.

Problems and solutions

Lost password for a protected folder

You can restore access to Knox, Private Space or Personal Folder by entering the secret phrase you set at the beginning. If this cannot be done, the only solution is to reset the device to factory settings. You won't be able to recover password-protected files this way, but you can download the apps again and continue using them.

Can't reset parental controls

In the case of McAfee, the deletion must first be carried out on the child’s device through the application settings. Due to the blocking, they cannot simply be launched: access must be provided through the parent’s smartphone. Otherwise, uninstallation occurs in exactly the same way as for any third-party programs.

After this, you should uninstall the parent version of Safe Family.

Now you know how to block the installation of applications on Android, and that you can block downloads using different methods. Whether you want to get rid of automatically downloaded malware or protect your child from inappropriate content, the methods will help you with this task.

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Vault

This blocker is ready to compete for the title of the most functional. The developers managed to implement many options. But first things first. Firstly, this utility allows you to cope with the necessary task - setting a password for an application installed on your smartphone. Secondly, Vault provides secure file storage where you can store media files, contacts and SMS messages.

Vault is also a backup tool. So, if you are going to reset your smartphone, this utility will save all the data so that after the reset you can restore it with one touch. Another feature of the program is the built-in browser, which has its own VPN service and a bunch of settings for hiding bookmarks.

We also cannot ignore the shortcomings, because they exist. Despite the fact that Vault is distributed free of charge through the Play Market, the Free version is characterized by a large number of restrictions. To remove them, you need to subscribe to a paid subscription.

Method 1: System Tools

The simplest, but at the same time the most effective approach to setting a password to protect access to almost any Android application is to use tools integrated into the OS itself. Such solutions are developed by many well-known mobile device manufacturers (Samsung, Huawei, Xiaomi, Meizu, etc.) into their system shells and are usually located in the “Security” or “Privacy” section of the system parameters.

The following demonstrates how to work with the MIUI OS component on a Xiaomi smartphone; in other versions of Android interface shells, you should proceed by analogy.

The first step is to activate and configure the “Application Protection” system tool on the device as a whole. To do this in MIYUAY:
- Open "Settings" of the OS, move to the "Applications" category. Click on the title of the “Application Protection” section.
- Tap “Enable” on the screen asking you to secure your data. Tap the "Security method" link, select "Password" from the list of lock options.
To be able to reset the password entered in the step above if it is forgotten, it is recommended to link an account in the device firmware developer ecosystem to the tool. Tap “Bind” on the screen with this offer.
Next, uncheck the application icons marked by the locking tool, click “Use protection” at the bottom of the screen.
Subsequently, to password-protect the procedure for launching a particular software:
- Open Application Protection from OS Settings. If it is activated and configured as described above, you will be presented with a list of software installed on the device.
- Activate the switch located to the right of the name of the protected application or do this for several tools. Then close the toolkit screen and exit System Settings.
From now on, when you try to launch the applications selected in the step above, you will need to enter the secret combination of characters that you assigned when setting up the system software protection tool.

Norton App Lock

Uplocker from the creators of the antivirus of the same name, which inspires confidence in many users. Unlike previously reviewed programs, Norton App Lock is ready to boast not only of the absence of payment for using the functionality, but also of a complete refusal of advertising. The only thing the blocker offers is other Norton products.

The functionality of the program can hardly be called ultra-wide, but Norton App Lock's capabilities will be enough to block applications. With its help, you can set a password for the necessary software, install a graphic key, or protect software components with a fingerprint. Finally, Norton has media file protection.

Security screen lock – fingerprint

Reliable and simple fingerprint locking - protect personal data, photos and videos, messages, instant messengers, mail, settings and other programs. Double protection with a password and fingerprint will prevent strangers from seeing your hidden content.

Locked photos and videos are placed in a special storage and disappear from the gallery. The Security app has a set of colorful themes for the lock screen. Blocks the ability to remove programs.

AppLock IvyMobile

Uplocker from the IvyMobile studio, which allows you to protect any information presented on your smartphone. This applies to applications, photos, contacts list and SMS messages. In addition, if the phone itself is unlocked, the attacker will not even be able to access the settings, which will make it very difficult for him to interact with the device.

If you are not sure that the password can protect your data, do not worry, because the developers have integrated the keyboard shuffling function. With each new dialing, it will look different, so no one from the outside will be able to recognize the access code.

What is it for?

The most common scenario for using the option to restrict application installations is parental controls. The function can also be used if you do not want a stranger to make a purchase through the Play Store.

Of course, this is not the only example where blocking can be useful. There are known cases of automatic installation of malicious programs that interfere with the operation of the device. In such a situation, blocking the installation can help out the device owner. The main thing is to set the restrictions correctly.

Perfect AppLock

The selection is completed by an uplocker with a self-explanatory name, and the word “Perfect” can really make all users pay attention to it. The developers have come up with an optimal security tool that blocks not only access to files and programs, but also to connections, be it Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.

In addition, inside you will be greeted by an interesting function, the essence of which is to automatically create a selfie if the password is entered incorrectly. This way you will have a complete picture of those who tried to unlock your smartphone. Interesting? Not that word! However, built-in advertising will be able to prevent you from comfortably exploring all the features of Perfect AppLock.

How to unblock AppLock and other applications?

It's quite simple, launch AppLock by tapping on the program with your finger;
We go to its main window, enter the PIN code;
In the new window, select the “Blocked” tab;
Click on the lock above the desired application, and it will be quickly unlocked.

If you are tired of this blocker, in this case you need to tap the icon above each blocked application and unblock it (Tap quickly and quickly remove your finger. If you press slowly, you will not immediately remove the block of the desired application). After removing the block over the programs, you can remove the AppLock application itself. Without unlocking applications, I do not recommend deleting AppLock to avoid system crash.

Blocking Google Play using system settings

On some phones that use their own software shell, there is a special option that allows you to set a PIN code for various applications. These devices include Xiaomi (MIUI), Meizu (FlymeOS), ASUS (ZEN UI), Huawei (EMUI) . Let's take a look at how the system blocker works using the example of Xiaomi Redmi 8. MIUI 12.5.2 shell. Android 10 system.

We enter the settings of the smartphone;
Select the “Applications” tab;
Next we need the “Application Protection” tab;
We enable this option by clicking on the green “Enable” button;
Set the graphic key and click “Next”;
Log in to your Mi account (You must have one. If you don’t have one, you can do without it.);
Select the application that needs protection. In our case, this is Google P. To do this, you need to click on the application to check the box. By default, the system offers us 10 applications, which were chosen by 97% of users. Click on the “Use Application Protection” button;
If you do not have Play Market among the 10 proposed programs, then return to the previous page and select Google Play from the list, moving the slider above it to the “On” position (to the right side).

Now our Play Market is protected by the system shell.