How to use Lockdown mode on your Galaxy phone

Lockdown mode is a security feature on Galaxy phones that enhances protection by disabling biometric unlocking, blocking notifications, and preventing USB connections. This guide explains how to access, enable, and unlock your phone when Lockdown mode is active.
A Galaxy phone with a blue shield icon floating above it against a digital background.
A Galaxy phone with a blue shield icon floating above it against a digital background.

How to use Lockdown mode on your Galaxy phone

Note
  • Available settings and menu options may vary depending on the device and software version.
  • When Lockdown mode is enabled, biometric unlocking (fingerprint or face recognition) is disabled to enhance your phone's security.

Check the One UI version running on your phone

Note
The available menu names, settings options, and screen layouts may vary depending on the device model, software version, and app version.

To ensure compatibility, check the software version on your phone:
 

Phones with One UI 8.5 or later

  1. Open Settings, then tap Software update.
  2. Tap Check for updates.
    Software update screen with the Check for updates option highlighted.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions if an update is available.


Phones with One UI 8.0 or earlier

  1. Open Settings, then tap Software update.
  2. Tap Download and install.
    Software update screen with the Download and install option highlighted.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions if an update is available.
    A screen confirming that the software is up to date.
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What is Lockdown mode?

A hand holding a purple Galaxy phone showing the pattern unlock screen layered behind a stylized shield graphic.

Lockdown mode enhances your phone's security by:

  • Disabling biometric unlocking
  • Blocking notifications
  • Preventing USB connections
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How can I access Lockdown mode?

Starting with One UI 8.5 and higher, the Show Lockdown mode option has been redesigned and is now enabled by default. 
 
To access it:
  1. Press and hold the Volume down button and Power button simultaneously.
    A Galaxy phone showing the quick settings panel with the power icon highlighted in a blue circle.
  2. For phones running One UI 9.0 or later, Lockdown mode is enabled automatically. For phones running One UI 8.5, tap Lockdown mode to enable it.

    A Galaxy phone power menu screen with the Lockdown mode option highlighted in a blue circle.
  3. To unlock your phone, double-tap the screen, and then enter your PIN, Password, or Pattern.


For phones running One UI 8.0 and lower, Lockdown mode options must be enabled first.

  1. Go to Settings > Lock screen and AOD > Secure lock settings.
    A Galaxy phone lock screen and AOD settings menu with the Secure lock settings option highlighted in a blue box.
  2. Enter your PIN, Password, or Pattern, and then tap Show Lockdown mode option.
  3. Open the Power menu, and then tap the Lockdown mode icon to enable it.
  4. To unlock your phone, double-tap the screen, and then enter your PIN, Password, or Pattern.
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How do I unlock my phone when Lockdown mode is enabled?

A hand drawing a pattern on a purple Galaxy phone screen to unlock it.

To unlock your phone:
  1. Double-tap the screen.
  2. Enter your PIN, Password, or Pattern.
     

Once Lockdown mode is unlocked, biometric unlocking (fingerprint or face recognition) will work normally the next time you lock your phone without using Lockdown mode.

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How do I fix issues with Lockdown mode?

  • Lockdown mode doesn't work when activated: If you try to unlock your device five times and fail, a security feature is triggered, and you won't be able to use Lockdown mode. To use Lockdown mode again, you need to unlock your device correctly after those failed attempts.
  • Biometric unlocking still works: Lockdown mode disables biometric unlocking. Use a PIN, password, or pattern to unlock.
  • Notifications or Now Bar are visible: Ensure Lockdown mode is properly activated. If issues persist, restart your device and try again.
  • Device locks immediately without a screen lock: When triggered (via the Power button, or Volume down and Power button), the device enters a secure locked state without requiring an additional tap.

Regularly update your device's software to ensure compatibility with the latest features.

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