In this digital age, our smartphones carry so much personal information — messages, photos, financial apps, and more. That’s why protecting your phone is essential.
One of the safest and fastest methods is using a fingerprint lock. In this article, we will explore how fingerprint locks work on Android, the benefits, and a few top apps you can try — including a popular app called App Lock – Applock Fingerprint.
What Is a Fingerprint Lock?
A fingerprint lock uses the unique ridges on your finger to unlock your phone or apps. Unlike PINs or patterns, it’s much harder for someone else to copy your fingerprint.
Many newer Android phones come with a built-in fingerprint sensor, making the feature easy to use. For phones without it, or for extra app-level protection, third-party apps can help.
Why Should You Use It?
- Fast Access: Unlock phone or apps in a split second.
- Strong Security: Only your fingerprint works — no guessing.
- App-level Protection: You can lock individual apps (like WhatsApp, Gallery, etc.).
- No Password Hassle: You don’t need to remember long passwords or patterns.
Top Android Apps for Fingerprint Lock
Here are some reliable apps you can try:
App Lock – Applock Fingerprint
This is a very popular app with over 100 million downloads and a 4.7-star rating on Google Play.
Key features:
- Lock apps, gallery, messages, and private files using fingerprint, PIN, or pattern.
- Safe Vault to hide photos and videos, so they are invisible in your gallery.
- Intruder Selfie: Automatically captures a photo of someone trying to unlock with the wrong password.
- Disguise Mode / Hide App Icon: Makes the app look like something else (so others don’t know you’re using it).
- Uninstall Protection: Prevents the app from being removed easily.
- Customizable themes, random keyboard, and other locking settings.
It’s a full-featured app, ideal if you want both device and app-level security in one package.
Other Notable Apps
- AppLock by DoMobile Lab: Simple, lightweight, and easy to use. Locks apps and files using fingerprint, PIN, or pattern.
- Norton App Lock: From a trusted security brand, offers app-level locking without ads.
- LOCKit (sometimes a variant of the same name): Offers folder hiding, app locking, and extra privacy features.
Each app has slightly different extras — some hide the app icon, some take selfies of intruders, or offer vaults for photos/videos.
How to Set Up Fingerprint Lock
- Download App Lock – Applock Fingerprint from the Google Play Store.
- Open the app and grant the required permissions (such as “All Files Access” for hiding files).
- Choose apps or features you want to lock using fingerprint, PIN, or pattern.
- Explore extra features like Intruder Selfie, Disguise Mode, or Vault for photos.
Tips for Better Security
- Register more than one fingerprint (e.g., thumb and index) for easier access.
- Always set a backup PIN or password in case the fingerprint sensor fails.
- Keep the sensor clean; dirt or smudges can prevent it from reading your print.
- Use biometric lock and app-level lock for extra protection (especially for banking apps or private photos).
- Be careful when granting permissions to lock apps — only allow what is necessary.
Final Thoughts
Using a fingerprint lock is one of the easiest yet most effective ways to protect your phone and apps. With apps like App Lock – Applock Fingerprint, you get advanced features like app hiding, intruder alerts, and vaults — all in one tool. If you care about your privacy and data security, setting up fingerprint locks today is a smart move.