There are times to turn off Face ID
How To's, Privacy and Security

Stop Using Face Unlock? When to Do This Instead

February 27, 2026
3 min read
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How to Temporarily Disable Face ID or Fingerprint and Require a Passcode (iPhone & Android)

Most of us unlock our phones dozens of times a day. A quick glance. A fingerprint tap. Done.

Face ID and fingerprint unlock are fast and convenient. But there are times when you may want your phone to require a passcode instead.

The good news: you can temporarily disable biometric unlock in just a couple of seconds on both iPhone and Android.

Here’s how it works.

Why Require a Passcode Instead of Face ID or Fingerprint?

In many court cases, biometric unlocking has been treated differently than a passcode.

A fingerprint or face scan may be considered physical evidence. A passcode may be treated as testimony because it comes from your memory. That legal distinction can matter in certain situations, though rulings can vary.

But beyond the legal angle, there are practical reasons too.

You might want to require a passcode:

  • In crowded environments
  • At concerts or sporting events
  • When traveling
  • Anytime someone could grab your phone

Biometrics unlock quickly. A passcode requires intent.

How to Temporarily Disable Face ID on iPhone

If you want your iPhone to require a passcode instead of Face ID or Touch ID, follow these steps:

Step 1:

Press and hold the Side button and either Volume button at the same time.

Step 2:

Keep holding until the power screen appears.

Step 3:

Tap Cancel.

You do not need to power off the phone.

Once that screen appears, Face ID or Touch ID is disabled. The next unlock will require your passcode.

This works on modern iPhones running current iOS versions.

How to Disable Fingerprint or Face Unlock on Android

Most Android phones, including Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy devices, include a similar feature called Lockdown.

Step 1:

Press and hold the Power button.

Step 2:

Tap Lockdown.

Once enabled:

  • Fingerprint unlock is disabled
  • Face unlock is disabled
  • The phone requires your PIN, pattern, or password

Lockdown mode lasts until you enter your passcode.

What Is Android Lockdown Mode?

Android Lockdown mode temporarily disables biometric unlock and hides lock screen notifications. It is designed to require a passcode before the phone can be accessed again.

It does not permanently change your settings. It simply forces the next unlock to require your PIN or password.

Why Your Passcode Matters More Than You Think

We spend a lot of time worrying about strong passwords for websites and apps.

But your phone’s passcode protects the device itself and the encrypted data stored inside it.

Biometrics unlock the screen.

Your passcode unlocks the encryption.

If you are still using a simple four-digit code, consider switching to:

  • A longer numeric passcode
  • A six-digit code
  • An alphanumeric passcode

It may take an extra second to type, but it significantly increases security.

Is This About Avoiding Law Enforcement?

No.

This feature is built into your phone for security and privacy control. It is not about doing anything wrong. It is about understanding how your device works and using its built-in protections wisely.

Final Takeaway

Face unlock is convenient.

Your passcode is protection.

Knowing how to temporarily require a passcode gives you more control over your phone’s security in just two seconds.