Decoy PIN (second PIN)
A second PIN that opens a limited safe view instead of your full vault — how it is meant to work.
What it is
A Decoy PIN is a second 4–6 digit PIN, different from your real vault PIN. Entering the decoy unlocks a limited “safe” set of albums instead of your full private vault. Biometric unlock always opens the real vault — never the decoy. This is an extra privacy layer for situations where you must unlock under pressure.
Why it helps
Someone who forces an unlock may only see decoy-safe albums, not your fully private set — if you configured the decoy and chose which albums are safe.
How to use it
- 1
Set your real vault PIN first under Account Settings → App Lock.
- 2
When Decoy PIN controls are available in App Lock settings, set a second PIN that is not the same as the real PIN.
- 3
Choose which albums appear in the decoy-safe set (innocent albums you are willing to show).
- 4
Practice once: unlock with the real PIN vs the decoy PIN so you remember which is which. Never share that the decoy exists.
Details
Important limits
Decoy sessions do not unlock real encrypted album keys. Face ID / fingerprint always maps to the real vault. If Decoy PIN UI is not yet visible in your Account Settings, the capability is rolling out — real App Lock and Album lock still work as documented.
Troubleshooting
- Can the decoy PIN match the real PIN?
- No. The decoy must differ from the real vault PIN or it cannot be saved.
Related guides
- Set up App Lock (PIN & biometrics)Enable App Lock, set a 4–6 digit vault PIN, choose Lock after leaving, and turn on Face ID / fingerprint.
- What is the Private Vault & App Lock?How vault PIN, App Lock, Album lock, and optional encryption work together for private storage.
- Unlock attempt logWhat failed App Lock and album unlock attempts record on your device.
- Safer album coversStop private photos from showing as album thumbnails in your library grid.
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