How to Enable and Use Lockdown Mode on Android

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
Android 15 - Pixel 8 Pro
You will need
Android device running Android 9 or later

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Enable the power menu shortcut

    Open the Settings app and navigate to Security & privacy. Tap on More security settings and select Lock screen. Toggle the switch for Show lockdown option to the On position.

    Note: If you cannot find this, search for Lockdown in the Settings search bar.
  2. 30 sec

    Trigger the power menu

    Press and hold the Power button on the side of your device. This action reveals the power menu containing options for Power off, Restart, and Lockdown.

  3. 10 sec

    Initiate Lockdown mode

    Tap the Lockdown button in the power menu. The screen will immediately turn off, and the device will lock instantly.

    Note: Your phone is now in a high-security state.
  4. 30 sec

    Confirm the security state

    Wake the device screen. You will notice that biometric unlock methods like fingerprint and face scan are disabled.

    Note: The device can only be unlocked using your PIN, pattern, or password.
  5. 15 sec

    Unlock your device to exit

    Enter your primary passcode, pattern, or PIN. Once authenticated, Lockdown mode is automatically deactivated, and your standard biometric settings will function normally again.

    Note: Lockdown mode is a one-time activation and must be manually triggered each time you need it.