Security
Hide OTP Notifications on a Locked Screen Without Missing the Code
A code on your lock screen is visible to anyone who picks up your phone. For most people that is a small risk, but for banking and email it is worth five minutes to fix.
The risk
- Someone nearby can read the code.
- A child or colleague can use it by mistake.
- A stolen locked phone can show codes to the thief.
What to change
- Open notification settings for your messages app.
- Set lock-screen notifications to show the sender only, or to hide content.
- Make this setting for your banking and email apps too.
- Check smartwatch settings, since watches may still show the full text.
Phone behaviour to know
- Hiding the preview does not stop the message arriving.
- You can unlock the phone and read it normally.
- Autofill from the keyboard can still suggest the code after you unlock.
Other leaks to check
- Notification mirroring to a computer.
- Smart displays and car screens.
- Shared tablets that use the same account.
Pair with stronger sign-in
Where you can, replace SMS with an authenticator app. See backup codes for how to prepare.
Step-by-step on common phones
On most phones the setting is under Notifications, then Lock screen, then Hide sensitive content or Show sender only. The names differ by brand, so search the settings for 'lock screen notifications'.
Extra habits
- Use a screen lock.
- Do not leave your phone face up in public.
- Delete old codes from your inbox.
Questions people ask
Will I still get the code if I hide previews?
Yes. Only the lock-screen display changes.
Does this stop SIM swap attacks?
No. It only reduces what people near you can see.
Related guides and pages
Create a free OtpGet account and try it with a small balance.