Apps to lock your apps are more important today than ever. Why? Because our phones hold everything — messages, photos, social media, even banking info.
Sometimes, we hand our phones to someone for a second, and bam! They’re already snooping.
Why Use Apps to Lock Your Apps and Hide Files?
Apps to lock your apps do exactly what the name says — they let you choose which apps you want to protect with a password, pattern, or fingerprint.
That way, even if someone unlocks your phone, they still can’t open those private apps.
And when we talk about hiding files, we mean photos, videos, documents, or anything else that you don’t want others to see.
Maybe it’s personal pictures, maybe it’s work stuff — whatever it is, these apps help keep it safe and private.
Using these tools can really change how secure you feel. Instead of worrying every time someone borrows your phone, you can relax.
Your information stays yours.
🔐 Best Apps to Lock Your Apps and Protect Your Privacy
Here’s a list of the top apps that help lock your apps and hide your private files.
I’ve tested them, kept it simple, and focused on what really matters: ease of use, effectiveness, and privacy.
1. AppLock by DoMobile
This is one of the most popular apps out there — and for good reason.
What it does:
- Locks any app on your phone (WhatsApp, Gallery, Instagram, you name it).
- Can also hide photos and videos.
- Lets you use pattern, PIN, or fingerprint to unlock.
Why people love it:
It’s very easy to use, even for people who aren’t super familiar with technology. Plus, it’s light and doesn’t slow down your phone.
Downside:
Free version shows some ads, but nothing too annoying.
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2. Norton App Lock
Made by the same company that makes antivirus software, Norton App Lock is simple, safe, and ad-free.
Features:
- Locks apps using PIN, pattern, or fingerprint.
- Doesn’t overload your phone with extras.
- Works smoothly on most Android phones.
Bonus:
It can also take a photo of anyone who tries to unlock your app with the wrong password. That’s some Sherlock Holmes stuff right there.
3. Keepsafe Photo Vault
If your main goal is to hide private photos and videos, Keepsafe is perfect.
Key Features:
- Creates a private vault inside your phone.
- You can import photos, and they disappear from your gallery.
- Uses PIN, pattern, or fingerprint to open.
Best part:
It’s very clean and looks like part of your phone. No complicated menus. It just works.
4. Calculator Lock – Gallery Vault
Now this one is fun. On the outside, it looks like a regular calculator. But it’s secretly a vault to hide your files.
What makes it unique:
- Disguises itself as a calculator app.
- Enter a code to unlock your hidden files.
- Great if you want extra privacy.
Cool trick:
You can even set fake passwords to open a decoy vault, just in case someone insists on checking.
5. AppLock – Fingerprint by SpSoft
Another solid option to lock your apps, especially if you want to use your fingerprint.
Highlights:
- Supports pattern, PIN, and fingerprint.
- Has themes if you like to customize.
- Can lock incoming calls, settings, Bluetooth, and more.
Tip:
You can set it to lock apps only at certain times or places. That way, it doesn’t annoy you at home, but protects your stuff outside.