Smartphone security starts with the lock screen. Here's how to protect it.

Smartphone lock screen security: A guide to protecting your personal information

This article was originally published on July 15, 2020 and has since been updated.

Your phone's lock screen might reveal more personal data than you realize. While it generally protects access to apps like banking, email, and social media, both Google and Apple allow access to certain features without requiring a password.

Balancing security with convenience is key. While a strong lock screen is crucial, some lock screen shortcuts are useful, and providing contact information can aid in device recovery.

iOS Lock Screen Settings

Apple's default setting allows launching Siri from the lock screen using "Hey Siri." This is convenient for quick tasks, but Siri won't answer personal questions about messages or emails without unlocking.

However, Siri will reveal your name when asked "What's my name?". To prevent this, disable "Allow Siri When Locked" in Settings > Siri & Search.

To help someone return a lost phone, use the Health app. Add emergency contacts and medical information via user avatar (top right) > Medical ID > Edit. Enable "Show When Locked" to make this information visible on the lock screen.

[Related: Maximize your smartphone security with this checklist]

Anyone can access the camera with a swipe, but not photo libraries. Completely disabling the camera (Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions) prevents this, but also disables camera use entirely.

Additional lock screen settings are found in Settings > Face ID & Passcode (or Touch ID & Passcode). Here, you can manage access to Today View, notifications, Siri, Apple Wallet, smart home controls, and features like "Reply with Message" and "Return Missed Calls." Disabling the latter two prevents unauthorized replies or calls.

Android Lock Screen Settings

Android options are similar, but vary across versions. These instructions apply to Android 12; adapt as needed for other versions.

By default, Android's lock screen restricts access to private information unless it's on your emergency information card (detailed below). While Google Assistant can be launched, it requires unlocking for personal information. Voice unlocking (using "Hey Google") can be set up in Settings > Apps > Assistant > Say “Hey Google,” > Hey Google.

Camera access is enabled by double-pressing the power button. This only allows taking new pictures, not accessing existing ones. Check Settings > System > Gestures > Quickly open camera to ensure this is enabled.

Control notification privacy in Settings > Notifications. Use "Sensitive notifications" to control whether personal information (like text message content) is visible, and "Notifications on lock screen" to manage notification display altogether. App-specific notification settings are available under Apps.

For emergency contact information, use the Safety app (download if needed). Add emergency contacts and medical details; this information will be visible on the lock screen without unlocking.

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