You can secure individual apps on your iPad by enabling a Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode requirement directly from the app's Quick Actions menu.
Secure Individual Apps on Your iPad with Biometrics or Passcode
While iPads do not feature a universal app-locking mechanism through a single setting that applies to all apps, specific applications can be secured individually by requiring authentication upon access or for particular functions. This method, available for compatible applications, allows you to add an extra layer of security using your Face ID, Touch ID, or device passcode.
Steps to Require Authentication for an App
To set up a biometric or passcode requirement for a specific app on your iPad, follow these simple steps:
- Go to the Home Screen: Navigate to your iPad's Home Screen where the app icon is located.
- Locate the App: Find the particular app you wish to secure.
- Access Quick Actions: Touch and hold the app icon until a menu of Quick Actions appears.
- Tap Require Authentication: From the Quick Actions menu, tap on Require Face ID (or Touch ID or Passcode), depending on your iPad model and security setup.
- Confirm and Authenticate: Tap Require Face ID (or Touch ID or Passcode) again. You will then be prompted to authenticate using your Face ID, Touch ID, or by entering your device passcode to confirm the setting.
Note: The availability of the "Require Face ID (or Touch ID or Passcode)" option in the Quick Actions menu depends on the specific app and whether its developers have integrated this functionality with iPadOS security features. This feature is designed to secure access to the app itself or to sensitive content and actions within it.
Enhancing iPad Security
Beyond individual app authentication, consider these broader security practices to further protect your iPad and its data:
- Strong Device Passcode: Always use a strong, unique passcode for your iPad to prevent unauthorized access to the device itself.
- Face ID/Touch ID: Enable Face ID or Touch ID for convenient and secure unlocking of your iPad and for quick authentication in supported apps.
- Screen Time App Limits: For managing usage or restricting access by others, you can utilize Screen Time to set time limits for specific apps or app categories. While this doesn't "lock" an app with authentication, it can prevent prolonged or unauthorized use after a set duration. To set up app limits, go to Settings > Screen Time > App Limits.
- Regular Updates: Keep your iPadOS and all installed apps updated to ensure you have the latest security patches and features.
For more detailed information on security features and managing apps on your iPad, you can refer to Apple's official support documentation: Lock or hide an app on iPad - Apple Support.