Hack of the Day: Protect your privacy with Android guest mode

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There are times when someone wants to see your new phone and check out its features. Since your phone is arguably the most private thing you have, it’s natural to feel a sense of hesitation to protect your messages, photos and and personal data, even during a quick demo of its features. Thankfully, Google provides a system on Android phones which is beneficial when you need to temporarily lend your phone to someone via a guest profile.

A guest profile conceals your files and private data from other users but maintains access to the same Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth devices as the main profile. This ensures that all your files, messages, texts, emails, pictures, and music remain protected from other users.

How to enable Guest Mode on Android: Here are the steps

- Open Quick Settings: Swipe down from the top of your screen with two fingers to fully expand the panel.
- Find the User Icon: Tap the User icon (often a small portrait icon in the corner).
- Add Guest: Tap Add guest or Switch to guest.
- Wait for Setup: The phone will take a moment to create a new session, resulting in a blank home screen with only default apps.

Note: If "Add guest" is not in the quick settings, go to Settings > System > Multiple Users > Guest.

How to Exit and Remove Guest Mode

- Swipe down from the top to open Quick Settings.
- Tap the User icon (now likely showing "Guest").
- Tap Remove guest.
- Confirm: Tap "Remove" again. This will delete all data from the session and require your phone - PIN/fingerprint to return to your normal profile.