Set lock screen on Android device

To prevent someone from snooping on your smartphone or tablet, it is possible to put a kind of lock on the device. By default, you swipe the unlock screen and get direct access to the device. But there are several locking options to prevent this.

There are several options to lock the screen. We discuss these here. Read how to set this up in the next step.

• Swipe: This option is set by default. This is not security. You just swipe your finger on the screen to unlock the tablet.
• Pattern: You will see nine dots. By connecting at least four dots, you draw a pattern. This pattern will unlock the tablet later.
• PIN Code: In this option you enter a four-digit PIN code, which you use to unlock the tablet.
• Password: This lock requires you to enter a password. The password must consist of at least four characters with at least one letter.
• None: If you choose this option, you will not have a screen lock on your tablet.
• Fingerprint: New models offer the option to unlock the device by placing your finger on the home button.
• Face: The latest models also offer the option to use facial recognition to protect the device.

Lock the Android device so that someone can’t just snoop in it like this:

• Open the overview of all apps by tapping apps or by swiping from bottom to top (Android 8.0 and above).
• Tap on Institutions.
• Tap on lock screen or screen lock and secure..
• Tap on Typescreen lock or Screensaver.
• An overview of the different locking options appears. The next steps depend on your choice. We opt for security based on a PIN code. Tap on Pin.
• Enter a four-digit PIN.
• Tap on Get on.
• Enter your chosen PIN again.
• Tap on OK.

You have now set up a PIN to protect the device. The device can only be unlocked by entering this code. If you want to change the lock, you can do so via the same menu. However, you must first enter the current code for security.