How to Lock Apps on OnePlus 12R to Protect Your Individual Information

If you are not a fan of having to go through the process of getting through a pattern or password every time you want to use your phone, the good news is that you don’t have to. There are really just a few Apps on your Android device that have sensitive information you don’t want others getting access to. It would really be great if you could lock those apps individually as opposed to locking the OnePlus 12R device as a whole.

Well, in light of helping you out, this article will address just how you can lock Apps on your device and not have to type in a code every time you want to use the OnePlus 12R device.

Part 1. Why you need to Lock Apps on Android?

Before we get down to the business of locking some of your Apps, let’s look at some of the reasons why you would want to lock certain apps.

• You may simply want better access on your device. Locking certain apps will allow you to easily access the OnePlus 12R device and use it without having to remember passwords and patterns.
• If you are a person who is not good at remembering passwords or patterns, simply locking certain apps will help you not get locked out of your entire device which can cause a lot of problems.
• If your device is used by more than one person, locking certain apps will keep the other users out of information you would rather they didn’t access.
• If you have children, you can eliminate the many accidental in-app purchases by locking the apps your children shouldn’t be on.
• Locking apps is also a good way to keep children from content they shouldn’t be accessing.

Part 2. How to Lock Apps in Android

There is always a good reason to Lock Apps on your device and we have two easy and effective methods you can use to do this. Choose the one that you are most comfortable with.

Method One: Using Smart App Protector

Smart App Protector is a freeware that allows you to lock specified applications.

Step 1: Download and Install Smart App Protector from the Google Play Store and Launch it. You may be required to install a helper application for Smart App Protector. This helper will ensure that the many App services running on your device will not be killed by third party apps.

Step 2: The default password 7777 but you can change this in the Password & Pattern Settings.

Step 3: The next step is to add apps to the Smart App Protector. Open the Running Tab on Smart Protector and tap on the “Add” button.

Step 3: Next, select the apps you would like to protect from the pop up list. Tap on the “Add” button once you have chosen your Apps.

Step 4: Now close the app and the Apps chosen will now be password protected.

Method 2: Using Hexlock

Step 1: Download Hexlock from the Google Play Store. Once it is installed, open it. You will be required to enter a pattern or PIN. This is the lock code that you will use every time you open the app.

Step 2: Once the PIN or Password is set, you are now ready to lock apps. You can create multiple lists of Apps to be locked ba_x_sed on your different needs. As an example, we have chosen the Work panel. Tap on “Start Locking Apps” to start.

Step 3: You will see a list of Apps to choose from.  Choose the Apps you wish to lock and then Tap the down arrow in the upper left when you are done.

You can then Swipe to the left to move to other lists such as “Home” and proceed to lock apps in this group as well.

Part 3. 6 Private Apps that you should lock on your Android

There are certain apps that may require to be locked more than others. Of course the choice of which apps you should lock will depend on your own uses and preferences. The following are some of the apps you would like to lock for one reason or another.

1. The Messaging App

This is the application that allows you to send and receive messages. You may want to lock this app if you use your device to send messages of a sensitive nature that you would rather keep private. You may also want to lock this app if your device is used by more than one person and you don’t want other users reading your messages.

2. Email App

Most people use individual email applications such as Yahoo Mail App or Gmail. This is another critical one if you are going to protect your work emails. You may want to lock the email app if your work emails are sensitive in nature and contain information that is not for all individuals.

3. Google Play Services

This is the application that allows you to download and install applications to your device. You may want to lock this one if you are trying to prevent other users from downloading and installing further apps to your device. This is especially valuable if your device is utilized by children.

4. Gallery App

The Gallery app displays all the images on your device. The main reason you may want to lock the Gallery app may be because you have sensitive images that are not suitable for all viewers. Again this is ideal if children make use of your device and you have images that you would rather they didn’t see.

5. Music Pla_x_yer App

This is the Application that you use to play the music on your device. You may want to lock it if you don’t want anyone else making changes to your saved audio files and playlists or don’t want someone listening to your audio files.

6. File Manager App

This is the App that displays all of the files that are saved on your device. It is the ultimate app to lock if you have sensitive information on your device that you would rather not share. Locking this app will ensure that all of the files on your device will remain safe from prying eyes.

Having the ability to lock your Apps is an easy way to keep information out of the limelight. It also allows you to take full control of your device. Try it, it might just be freeing as opposed to locking your entire device.

Still Using Pattern Locks with OnePlus 12R? Tips, Tricks and Helpful Advice

They have been along for a long, long time now – pattern locks – the easiest of all smartphone locks. You just swipe your finger across to create an easy pattern lock of your choosing and that’s it, it becomes your new screen lock. No more remembering tedious digits! So, why have these easy pattern locks become outdated, and why do people still continue to use them? Let’s take a dive and find out all about pattern locks.

Part I: Things To Know About Pattern Locks

The first cellphone locks were 4-digit number locks. Then came 6-digit codes, and even alphanumeric ones. Pattern locks were all the rage a while ago. Though pattern locks continue to be used, they are not considered safe to use any longer. What is all that about? Here’s what you need to know about pattern locks, whether you are a seasoned pattern lock user or not.

I.I: What Are Pattern Locks?

Believe it or not, technology has advanced at such a rapid pace in the last two decades that you’d be forgiven if you don’t know what a pattern lock is, especially if you have only ever used iPhones, or Android phones in just the last few years.

Pattern locks are patterns you create on your smartphone and designate as a smartphone lock/ screen lock. There is a 9-point keypad of sorts, and you start swiping your finger from any point to any point for any which way you feel like. Android 13 allows a minimum of 4 points registered. They are easy to create, and easy to use, hence called easy pattern locks.

Pattern locks have only ever been offered on Android devices and were commonplace a few years ago until they were deemed not secure enough for use by modern standards because they were easy to figure out by malicious actors.

I.II: Popularity and Usage

Pattern lock is a feature unique to Android and has been so since the start. Naturally, it is one of the preferred ways users have come to unlock their Android devices over the years. Even though modern Android smartphones come with fingerprint recognition and face recognition technologies, there exists a large subset of users still addicted to and acclimatized with the pattern lock feature, opting over fingerprint and face recognition.

There has been, however, research conducted into the safety and security offered by pattern lock in Android.

I.III: Advantages and Drawbacks

Modern smartphones very nearly contain the entirety of our lives; photo memories, video memories, important documents both financial and personal in nature, banking apps, ID and ATM/ credit cards in the “wallet” apps, and whatnot. A smartphone falling into the wrong hands could very nearly be used to devastate the rightful owner, both financially and otherwise. And this is not a claim out of thin air; spyware/ malware/ phishing attacks are on the rise around the world. Locking the smartphone, once considered optional and an unnecessary hassle, is now an absolute must.

Advantages of Pattern Locks

There is no denying that using an easy pattern lock to lock their smartphone seems enough for most users. Swiping your finger across your smartphone to unlock it feels not only cool and futuristic but safer and more secure than remembering and punching in digits. And, for the most part, it is true, given that 4-digit PINs can only have 10,000 unique combinations!

Disadvantages of Pattern Locks

While very easy to use, security researchers and experts have come to agree that the feature is not in the least safe to use, and that is because of how people use the pattern lock feature (discussed in detail below in part II). Some go so far as to say that most pattern locks can be breached in just 5 attempts or less. Imagine that!

What is more, research has found that humans have an uncanny ability to correctly guess a pattern lock simply by viewing the unlocking! The test comprised showing the test subjects videos of users unlocking their phones from different angles and varying distances, and it was found that around 64% of test subjects were able to correctly guess a 6-point pattern lock in one viewing only, and 80% could correctly guess the pattern after just two viewings. By contrast, only 11% were able to correctly deduce a 6-digit PIN after one viewing, and only 27% after viewing twice. This goes to show just how insecure pattern locks are!

Part II: How People Use Pattern Locks

We might wonder how anyone would be able to guess the correct pattern of our device, but believe it or not, it is possible, eerily easily at that! We are all the same humans, after all! You know how people usually set PINs that could be significant dates in their lives? How they get car registration numbers that mean something to them? The same ‘logic’ applies to their setting pattern locks.

At DEFCON 23, Marte Loge, an M.Sc. Computer Science student, presented something that stunned people around the world. She said, “Tell me who you are, and I will tell you your lock pattern.” What followed was an expert presentation outlining and detailing user behaviors around pattern locks.

These are some commonly created pattern locks by people:

• - shapes of alphabets,
• - shapes of numerals,
• - any other easy-to-make, simple shape.

Marte Loge presented the image below, showing how people naturally gravitate towards creating simple shape patterns, in her research.

To further help you see how easy it might be for anyone to guess your pattern, Marte Loge also presented some statistics.

• - 77% of people started their patterns in one of the 4 corners.
• - 44% of Loge’s subjects started their pattern with the first dot, the top-left one. The next number was 15% for the top-right and 14% for the bottom-left.
• - These percentages did not vary much depending on left-handedness or right-handedness.
• - On average, irrespective of gender, people set 5-point patterns, with 4-point patterns being the most common. This means that the number of combinations on average was 7152 for 5-point patterns and a bogglingly low 1624 for 4-point patterns.

The above data makes it amply clear how using an easy pattern lock is actually worse than using a 4-digit PIN, simply because how people are usually using the pattern lock feature.

Part III: Tips For Using More Secure Pattern Locks

Now, we know how hard it is to break habits cemented over years of use, so in case you must at all costs use a pattern lock only, the least you can do is try and change your easy pattern lock to a better, more secure hard pattern lock.

III.I: How to Create More Secure Patterns

Here are some tips to help you create a better, more secure pattern lock for your smartphone.

• - Avoid using any of the corners to start the pattern.
• - Never use your first initial as a pattern.
• - Never use a digit shape as a pattern.
• - You can pass through the same pattern lines multiple times over. This makes it more difficult for someone to guess your pattern correctly.
• - Use all 9 points on the grid while setting the pattern lock! That simple act takes the possible pattern combinations to over 140,000, significantly more than 10,000 for 4-digit PINs, and vastly superior to paltry 1624 for a 4-point easy pattern lock!

III.II: Forgot Your Pattern? Unlock Your OnePlus 12R Without Pattern Lock With Dr.Fone

Supercharged with the information above, you went ahead and changed your easy pattern lock to a hard-to-guess pattern lock. Only problem is, your brain is habituated to that old pattern, and you’ve suddenly forgotten what the new pattern was! Well, worry not; Wondershare Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android) will help you unlock your phone without pattern lock !

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android)

The Best Tool to Unlock Your OnePlus 12R without Pattern Locks!

• Remove all Android screen locks (PIN/pattern/fingerprints/face ID) in minutes.
• Bypass the FRP lock of Samsung without a PIN or Google account.
• Everyone can handle the lock screen without any tech knowledge.
• Provide specific removal solutions to promise good success rate.

4,008,669 people have downloaded it

Download the newest version of Dr.Fone from the Wondershare website and launch the app.

Step 1: Go to Toolbox > Screen Unlock and click Android.

Step 2: Click Unlock Android Screen.

Step 3: You will see a list of supported manufacturers on the next screen. Select yours.

Step 4: Now, follow the onscreen guide to prepare your device for screen unlocking.

After completing the process, when the Next button becomes available, click it.

Your device will be successfully unlocked.

Note that this method wipes all data on the OnePlus 12R device. There is no way around it. You may be able to unlock select older Samsung devices without data loss. Check this list for those devices.

Closing Words

Pattern locks are outdated and not safe to use an easy pattern lock – there are no two ways about it. As such, our recommendation is to start using a 6-digit PIN along with biometric or face recognition. However, we do understand that sometimes, you simply cannot use biometrics or face recognition. For those instances, we recommend that you use this guide and create a more secure pattern lock for your device. In case you forgot your pattern, there is always Wondershare Dr.Fone – Screen Unlock (Android) to save the day.

Top 12 Prominent OnePlus 12R Fingerprint Not Working Solutions

Part 1. Optimal Solution: Unlock With Wondershare Dr.Fone Directly

Facing a malfunctioning fingerprint on your OnePlus 12R can be frustrating. In this scenario, the most effective resolution is the removal of the registered fingerprint. Yet, traditional methods of removing the fingerprint can be difficult and pose security risks. In this case, going for tools like Wondershare Dr.Fone is the best choice. This tool ensures your Pixel device is at no risk.

Dr.Fone offers a swift solution to remove the Android lock screen in five minutes. It effectively removes 4 types of screen locks. These include patterns, PINs, passwords, and fingerprints. Dr.Fone can bypass the Android FRP lock without needing a PIN or Google account. It ensures accessibility to the Android device without such credentials.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android)

The Best UnlockJunky Alternative to Bypass FRP and Solve Your Screen Locks

• Remove all Android screen locks (PIN/pattern/fingerprints/face ID) in minutes.
• Bypass the FRP lock of Samsung without a PIN or Google account.
• Everyone can handle the lock screen without any tech knowledge.
• Provide specific removal solutions to promise good success rate.

4,008,672 people have downloaded it

Prominent Features of Wondershare Dr.Fone

1. FRP bypass is enabled for brands like Samsung, Xiaomi, Redmi, Oppo, Realme , and Vivo.
2. With Dr.Fone, bypassing screen locks can be achieved without data loss.
3. Fone supports 2000+ Android phones and tablets from over 18 brands for screen unlocking.

Step-by-Step Guide To Remove Fingerprint Type Lock on Google Pixel Using Dr.Fone

With Dr.Fone, you can resolve the OnePlus 12R fingerprint sensor not working issue within minutes. Below is a detailed walkthrough for removing a fingerprint lock on a Google Pixel:

• Step 1: Connecting and Accessing Screen Unlock Feature on Dr.Fone

Open Wondershare Dr.Fone and connect your Android device via a USB cable. Once the connection is established, navigate to the “Toolbox” tab and choose “Screen Unlock.” Upon reaching the new screen, choose the “Android” option. Then, select “Unlock Android Screen” from the options on the following screen.

• Step 2: Selecting Google As the OnePlus 12R device Brand and Activating Recovery Mode

Afterward, you’ll be guided to a subsequent screen prompting you to choose the OnePlus 12R device brand, Google. Once you select the brand, you’ll be directed to enter a specific mode corresponding to it. For Google Pixel Devices, the specific mode to enter is Recovery Mode. Simply follow the on-screen instructions to activate Recovery Mode on your device.

• Step 3: Initiate the Fingerprint Removal Process

After entering Recovery Mode, the screen unlocking procedure will initiate automatically. Please wait for the fingerprint removal process to finish. In case of failure, select “Try Again” to attempt unlocking again. Upon successfully unlocking your Android device’s screen, tap “Done.”

Part 2. 11 Conventional Solutions To Resolve Pixel Fingerprint Not Working

The solution above using Wondershare Dr.Fone is an effective and comprehensive method. It can tackle fingerprint recognition issues, but sometimes, users may look for simpler alternatives. We will explore conventional solutions that can address Pixel fingerprint problems. Each solution will also explain the underlying reasons for the Pixel 6 fingerprint sensor issue.

1. Fingerprint Sensor Not Touched Firmly

Problem

If the fingerprint sensor fails to recognize your fingerprint, it might be due to inadequate pressure. This could also be due to improper finger placement on the sensor.

Solution: Firm Placement

Ensure you firmly place your finger on the sensor, covering it entirely. Avoid too much pressure, but make sure the sensor fully contacts your fingerprint.

2. Device Showing Glitches

Problem

Glitches or software bugs in your Pixel device may cause disruptions. This can include issues with the fingerprint sensor’s functionality. These problems can range from minor issues to severe software glitches.

Solution: Restart Your Pixel Device

One of the easiest and simplest solutions is to restart your Pixel phone. You can do that by pressing the “Power” and the “Volume Up” keys. It will lead to a pop-up power menu where you must choose “Restart” to reboot your device.

3. Outdated Firmware

Problem

An outdated operating system or firmware can lead to compatibility issues. This can lead to malfunctioning features like the Pixel 6A fingerprint sensor not working.

Solution: Check for Updates

The best way to resolve this issue is to update your Pixel device. Having an outdated version of Android OS can lead to an accumulation of bugs and glitches. Moreover, it can seriously affect the OnePlus 12R device’s performance, causing many issues. Here is how to check and update your Pixel phone:

Instructions. On your Pixel device, access the “Settings” app. Within Settings, scroll down to tap the “System” option. On the following screen, hit the “System update” option to check if any latest update is available. Here, if you see any updates, download and install them promptly. Before initiating the update, ensure your device is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network with sufficient battery charge.

4. Dirty Phone or Sensor

Problem

Accumulated dirt, dust, or residue on the phone or fingerprint sensor can cause obstruction. This can lead to the failure to properly recognize your fingerprint.

Solution

1. Cleaning the Phone

Employ a gentle, dry microfiber cloth for wiping down the complete surface of your Pixel device. Take particular care to thoroughly clean the region surrounding the fingerprint sensor. Refrain from utilizing rough substances or strong chemicals as they could potentially cause harm to the OnePlus 12R device.

2. Fingerprint Sensor Cleaning

Gently wipe the fingerprint sensor area using a clean, dry cloth to ensure thorough cleaning. For better results, consider using a dampened cotton swab with water or isopropyl alcohol. Before using it again, ensure the sensor is entirely dry.

3. Compressed Air or Soft Brush

Use compressed air or a soft brush if there’s visible debris or particles around the sensor. Be cautious not to apply excessive pressure that might damage the sensor.

5. Screen Protector: Dirty or Damaged

Problem

A smudged or impaired screen protector might disrupt the working of the fingerprint sensor. This can potentially cause it to fail to recognize your fingerprint.

Solution

1. Clean the Screen Protector

Start by effectively cleaning the screen protector on your Pixel device. For a thorough cleaning, consider utilizing a screen cleaning solution. Ensure that the screen protector is free from any dirt or debris.

2. Replace Damaged Protectors

Is the screen protector visibly damaged, scratched, or peeling off? If yes, consider replacing it with a new one. Damaged protectors can hinder fingerprint recognition and compromise device protection.

3. Check Compatibility

Ensure the screen protector is designed to be compatible with fingerprint sensors. Some protectors may obstruct or interfere with the sensor’s functionality.

4. Remove Air Bubbles

There can be air bubbles trapped under the screen protector. If there are, gently press them out towards the edges using a card designed for this purpose.

6. Clean Your Finger

Problem

The problem may lie with your fingers rather than the OnePlus 12R device. Unclean or moist fingers can hinder accurate fingerprint recognition on the sensor, causing the OnePlus 12R fingerprint sensor to not work.

Solution

1. Cleanse and Dry Your Hands

Remove any dirt, oil, or moisture that might cause issues with the fingerprint sensor. It’s crucial to wash and thoroughly dry your hands. Additionally, verify that your fingers are entirely dry before engaging the sensor. The reason is any moisture or dampness may cause inaccuracies in fingerprint identification.

2. Avoid Oily or Greasy Substances

Refrain from touching oily or greasy surfaces before using the fingerprint sensor. These substances can transfer onto your fingers, affecting sensor accuracy. If your fingers are dirty or damp, pause to clean them using a dry, clean cloth.

7. Covering Screen if Fingerprint on Screen

Problem

Fingerprint marks or smudges on the screen might disrupt sensor functionality. This leads to inaccurate recognition when you try to unlock your device.

Solution

1. Avoid Covering the Sensor Area

Be cautious while cleaning the screen to avoid covering or smudging the area around the fingerprint sensor. Precise cleaning around this area prevents interference with sensor functionality.

2. Use Proper Holding Technique

While holding the OnePlus 12R device, avoid placing your fingers or palms over the fingerprint sensor. Opt for holding the OnePlus 12R device to minimize accidental contact with the sensor area.

8. Fingerprint Sensor Not Visible

Problem

Misconfigured settings on your Pixel device can lead to situations where the fingerprint sensor is not visible. It can lead to scenarios where the OnePlus 12R device fails to recognize your screen unlocking attempt.

Solution: Adjust the Setting To Consistently Display the Sensor

You must adjust the display settings to ensure the fingerprint sensor is always visible. To do that, you can begin by opening the Settings app. Navigate to the “Display” tab and select “Lock Screen.” On the following window, toggle on “Always show time and info.”

9. Low Touch Sensitivity

Problem

The fingerprint sensor may have low touch sensitivity . It can lead to difficulties in accurately recognizing fingerprints, leading to OnePlus 12R fingerprint not working.

Solution

1. Adjust Sensitivity Settings

Accessories like a screen protector might impact the performance of your Pixel device’s touch sensitivity. When using a screen protector, your Pixel enhances touch sensitivity. To do that, navigate to the Settings app and open it. Move to the “Display” window and scroll down to the last option. Toggle on the “Screen protector mode” to increase the screen sensitivity.

2. Finger Re-Enrollment

Delete existing fingerprints and re-register them. This re-enrollment can sometimes improve sensitivity and help remove the issues. Here is how you can delete and re-enroll your fingerprint:

• Step 1. In the Settings app of your Pixel, tap “Security & Privacy.” Then, press “Device Unlock” and choose “Fingerprint Unlock.” The device will now ask you to provide your device PIN or password.

• Step 2. Tap “Fingerprint Unlock” on the following screen and delete the previously enrolled fingerprints. Then, press “Add fingerprint” and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the process.

10. Other Hardware Issues

Problem

Persistent fingerprint sensor problems might indicate underlying hardware issues . This could go beyond common troubleshooting and might require professional help.

Solution

1. Inspect for Physical Damage

Thoroughly examine your Pixel device for any physical damage. These include cracks, dents, or scratches around the fingerprint sensor area. Physical damage could affect the sensor’s functionality.

2. Safe Mode Check

Boot the OnePlus 12R device in safe mode to determine if third-party apps are causing conflicts. To do that, press the “Power” key with any volume key to access the power menu. Afterward, long-press the “Power Off” option until the “Reboot to Safe Mode” option appears on your device’s screen. Press “OK” to reboot into Safe Mode and test the fingerprint sensor’s functionality.

3. Professional Assessment

If you suspect hardware issues, seek professional help from authorized service centers. A clear sign of hardware issues can be visible damage or the sensor failing to function even in safe mode.

11. Factory Reset as Last Resort

Problem

Did all other troubleshooting methods fail to resolve persistent fingerprint sensor issues? Then, a factory reset might be required to revert the OnePlus 12R device to its original settings.

Solution

1. Backup Data

Before initiating a factory reset, ensure that all crucial data is safeguarded. This encompasses contacts, photos, documents, and any other significant files. Use Google’s backup services or third-party apps to securely back up your data .

2. Initiating Factory Reset

Proceed with the following steps to execute a factory reset on your Pixel device:

• Step 1. On your Pixel smartphone, navigate to Settings and access the “System” tab. Here, scroll down to the bottom and tap “Reset Options.”

• Step 2. In “Reset Options,” choose “Erase All Data (Factory Reset)” to continue. Afterward, select “Erase All Data” on the next screen and follow the instructions to complete the process.

In summary, this article detailed various methods to fix the OnePlus 12R fingerprint not working. Diverse approaches were explored, from simple steps like sensor cleaning to advanced solutions like factory resets. However, Dr.Fone stands out among these solutions as a top-tier option. It offers a secure and efficient resolution to the persistent problem of fingerprint failure on the OnePlus 12R .

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