Private space and Secure Folder: keep sensitive apps and files hidden

Use Private Space on Android 15 or Secure Folder on Samsung to keep banking apps, photos and chats behind a second lock. Know what it cannot do.

Some phones can create a locked, separate area for apps and files. Android 15 calls it Private Space. Samsung phones have Secure Folder. Other brands have a similar hidden space. It keeps things out of casual view, not out of reach of malware. Menu names differ slightly on Samsung, Xiaomi, Vivo, Oppo, Realme and OnePlus phones.

Steps

1. Find the feature. On Android 15, open Settings, then Security and privacy, then Private space. On Samsung search Settings for Secure Folder. On other brands search for Private safe, Hidden space or App lock.
2. Set it up with a lock. Follow the steps and set a lock. In Private Space this can be a separate lock from your screen lock, and you should use a different, strong one. Make sure you remember it.
3. Move or install apps inside. Add apps you want hidden, such as a notes app, gallery or an alternate messaging app. Apps inside are separate copies with their own data, notifications and permissions.
4. Hide and lock it. Choose to lock automatically when the screen turns off and, if you want, to hide the space from the app list. The space then disappears from view until you search for and unlock it.
5. Check what is inside now and then. Open the space and review its apps and permissions. Remove old items. A forgotten app in a hidden space can still collect data, so treat it like the main profile.

Menu names differ a little between phone makers and Android versions. If you cannot find a setting, open Settings and use the search box.

Why it matters

A locked space helps when you lend your phone, when a relative or colleague browses it or when you want private photos kept away from the main gallery. It adds a second layer so a stolen, unlocked phone shows less. It is a privacy tool, not a safe that makes risky apps safe.

Watch out for

• Malware installed inside the space is still malware.
• If you forget its lock you may lose everything inside, so keep a backup.
• A hidden space used by a partner to hide apps from you can be a warning sign.
• Backups of the space may be limited, so check before you factory reset.

How Safeavio helps

Safeavio's phone scan reviews installed apps, requested permissions and apps outside a store, which helps you notice something odd. App Lock adds a separate 4 to 6 digit PIN to chosen apps. It cannot see inside other apps, so a locked space is not a substitute for careful installs.

Questions

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