How to Set Up Fingerprint on Google Pixel 3a XL

The developers of Google Pixel 3a XL managed to create an advanced user protection system. However, many smartphone owners continue to turn to the help of less effective security tools like using a pattern key, unaware of how to set up a fingerprint on Google Pixel 3a XL. The operation of setting up a fingerprint scanner does not take much time and can protect both the phone itself and its separate applications.

How to Add a Fingerprint

Regardless of what kind of information you want to protect on Google Pixel 3a XL, first you need to register the primary fingerprint. Usually you will be prompted to do this after the device is turned on for the first time, but if you skipped this step, you can set up protection after the fact:

1. Open your phone settings.
2. Go to the "Lock screen and fingerprints" section (sometimes the item you are looking for is called "Biometrics and security").

3. Select "Fingerprints".
4. Press "Add fingerprint".
5. Follow the instructions that appear on the screen.

During the setup process, you will need to enter a pattern (password) if it was previously registered, or create a new one. This will be an alternative means of unlocking the device if the scanner stops working. Then you will need to put your finger on the fingerprint scanner several times, and then your phone will be completely protected.

Please note that Google Pixel 3a XL allows you to add multiple prints by giving each one a name. This is done for the convenience of unlocking the device, depending on which finger is pressed to the fingerprint. This feature can be used if the device is used not only by you, but by another person as well.

Fingerprints in Individual Applications

If your smartphone is stolen, there is a high risk that the thief will gain access to the user's personal data, including bank accounts. This problem is especially relevant among people using online banking applications.

Fortunately, almost all of such apps allow you to additionally protect access to bank accounts. You just need to add a fingerprint on Google Pixel 3a XL through the settings, and then the scan will be automatically loaded into the application. You just need to confirm this login tool in the app settings.

If the App is not Protected by a Fingerprint

Usually, fingerprint protection is provided only for applications that interact with the user's money in some way. Apps like the Gallery and mobile games remain at risk. Fortunately, the Google Pixel 3a XL smartphone allows you to forcibly add protection for individual apps:

1. Open your phone settings.
2. Find the "Application lock" option (it may be called differently depending on the firmware version).
3. Check the apps that you want to enforce protection on.
4. Confirm the use of the fingerprint scanner in the settings.

Now, when trying to launch even the most innocuous program, an attacker will fail, since Google Pixel 3a XL will require them to provide a fingerprint.

Why Fingerprints do not Work on Google Pixel 3a XL

Sometimes the advanced protection fails and the user cannot unlock their Google Pixel 3a XL because the device does not recognize the phone owner's fingerprint. This can happen for several reasons:

• the person puts the wrong finger to the scanner;
• the print was not pre-configured, or the settings were reset;
• the user applies a wet or dirty finger;
• the fingerprint scanner is damaged or clogged.

An alternative method of authorization using a password or a pattern key can help you get out of this situation. But how do you get the scanner to work again? First you need to check the cleanliness of your fingers and the fingerprint scanner itself. Next, you need to check for registered fingerprints and create a new one if necessary. If the cable connecting the scanner to the motherboard has not come off the Google Pixel 3a XL, the problem should be resolved.

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