Method 1: Lock Messages App Using Screen Time
Worried about your privacy? Learn how to lock the Messages app on your iPhone or iPad using Screen Time.
Screen Time on your iPhone measures how much time you spend on your iPhone. You can use its App Limit feature to lock the Messages app. Here’s how:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad. Scroll down and select Screen Time.
- Tap on App Limits and select Add Limit.
- Choose the Messages app and tap on Next at the top-right corner.
- Use the time sliders to set the usage limit, after which the Messages app will get locked. Then, tap on Add at the top-right corner to confirm.
Once the Messages app gets locked after being used for the specified time, you must enter the Screen Time passcode to unlock it.
Method 2: Lock Messages App Using Face ID and Passcode
Protect your text messages with Face ID and Passcode on your iPhone or iPad.
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad. Scroll down and tap on Face ID & Passcode.
- Tap on Set Up Face ID. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish the setup process.
Note: Depending on your device model, some iPhones/iPads might not support this feature.
Method 3: Hide Message Previews
Enhance your privacy by hiding message previews on your lock screen.
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone. Scroll down and tap on Messages.
- Tap on Notifications, then scroll down and tap on Show Previews.
- Select Never.
- Return to the previous screen to choose to hide notifications from the Lock Screen, Notification Center, or Banners.
Method 4: Use Shortcuts to Lock the Messages App
Utilize the Shortcuts app to automate the locking of the Messages app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Open the Clock app on your iPhone or iPad. Tap on Timer at the bottom-right corner.
- Tap on When Timer Ends. Scroll down and select Stop Playing. Then, tap on Done at the top-right corner.
- Close the Clock app and open Shortcuts. Tap on Automation at the bottom.
- Select the Plus icon at the top-right corner and select Create Personal Automation.
- Scroll down and select App. Tap on Choose and select Messages.
- Select Add Action. Choose Start Timer from the list of actions. Set the Timer for 1 second and select Next.
- Disable Ask Before Running and select Don’t Ask from the prompt. Tap on Done at the top-right corner to confirm.
Now, your iPhone will automatically lock when someone tries to open the Messages app, and you can unlock it using your Face ID or passcode.
Method 5: Restrict Messages Using Two-Factor Authentication
Ensure the security of your Apple ID and prevent unauthorized access to your Messages on the web.
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Tap on your profile name, then select Password and Security.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication.
With two-factor authentication, you’ll need your device’s password and a 6-digit code sent to your phone number or other Apple devices using the same Apple ID for added security.
Conclusion: Safeguard Your Messages with These Methods
Protecting your privacy is essential in today’s digital world. By implementing these methods, you can enhance the security of your conversations and prevent unauthorized access to your messages on your iPhone and iPad.
