Learn · Android
Set a strong screen lock
5 min · essential
Why this matters. The screen lock protects your email, photos and banking apps, and it's what keeps the phone's storage encrypted. A 6-digit or longer PIN is far harder to guess than a pattern, which leaves smudge trails on the screen. Fingerprint or face unlock means you rarely have to type it.
1
Open screen lock settings
Open Settings and search for 'Screen lock'. On Pixel phones it's under Security & privacy, then Device unlock; on Samsung it's under Lock screen.
9:41
‹ Security & privacy
Device unlock
Screen lock
Change to a PIN or password
Face & Fingerprint Unlock
2
Pick a PIN of 6+ digits or a password
Avoid birthdays and repeated digits. Then add your fingerprint or face so you rarely type it.
Check your understanding
Why is a pattern weaker than a PIN?
Patterns are easy to watch over a shoulder and leave smudge trails someone can trace.
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Checked against:
Google: Set screen lock on an Android device
· last reviewed 2026-09