Having an app lock provides an additional layer of security to your phone on top of the traditional screen lock. If you’re a Samsung phone user, it comes with a couple of in-built methods to enable app lock that allows you to protect your most important apps and even media files from intruders. Let’s explore three effective ways to lock apps on Samsung devices:

1. Using Secure Folder

Secure Folder is a feature exclusive to Samsung devices running One UI 4 and later. Not only can it lock apps, but it can also hide photos, videos, files, and other important documents. Here’s how it works:

1. Open Settings on your Samsung phone.
2. Scroll down and select Security and privacy.
3. Tap on Secure Folder.
4. Sign in or create a Samsung Account and agree to the terms of use.
5. Choose a lock method (pattern, PIN, or password) based on your convenience.
6. A shortcut to the Secure Folder will be added to your Home and Apps screen.
7. Open the Secure Folder app.
8. Tap on ‘Add apps’ by tapping the ‘+’ icon at the top.
9. Select all the apps you wish to hide and press ‘Add’ when done.
10. The selected apps will appear in the Secure Folder.

This creates two versions of the app you wish to secure: one regular app accessible without a password and another stored in the Secure Folder, requiring a password. The data on both versions remains separate.

2. Using S Secure App

If you have an older Samsung device or prefer the traditional app lock method, you can try the S Secure app. It allows you to lock and mask your apps:

1. Download the S Secure app from the Play Store.
2. Open the app and select ‘Lock and mask apps’.
3. Set a PIN, pattern, or password.
4. Add apps to the locked list.
5. The selected apps will be locked and can’t be accessed without a password.

However, keep in mind that anyone with access to the phone can uninstall the S Secure app, which would unlock all the locked apps. For maximum security, consider using Secure Folder or third-party apps.

3. Third-Party Apps: Norton App Lock

Another option is to use third-party app lock solutions. Norton App Lock is a reliable choice. Here’s how to set it up:

1. Download and install Norton App Lock from the Play Store.
2. Open the app and follow the setup instructions.
3. Choose the apps you want to lock.
4. Set a PIN, pattern, or password.
5. The selected apps will be secured.

Remember to choose the method that best suits your needs and ensures the safety of your Samsung device and sensitive data.