Security Mode in VollaOS

[waldbursche]

The Security Mode is an application implemented in VollaOS with the following functions:

I apologise for the German screenshots in the tutorial. Unfortunately I didn't have time to switch the system to English and record the screenshots in English. Don't worry, the graphical positions are identical and self-explanatory.

1. When Security Mode is enabled, you can block apps and filter internet addresses using lists.

2. In the Security Mode interface, you can define which apps should be hidden and blocked. These apps will not run in the background. This feature is useful for untrusted apps required for work or for managing app access for employees, customers, or young users.

3. The Security Mode interface allows you to block internet access for apps, enabling offline use without data being transmitted over the internet.

4. Additionally, you can define an inclusion or exclusion list to specify which internet addresses are explicitly allowed or blocked.

Activating Security Mode

For first-time use:
1. Open **VollaLauncher** -> Swipe **right twice** -> **Settings**
2. Press and hold "Security Mode is OFF," slide to "Security Mode is ON," and release.
3. For first-time setup: Enter a **new password** (Make sure to remember it securely)
4. **Repeat password** exactly as entered in step 3

Now, Security Mode is active with default settings.

Deactivating Security Mode

1. Open **VollaLauncher** -> Swipe **right twice** -> **Settings**
2. Press and hold "Security Mode is ON," slide to "Security Mode is OFF," and release.
3. Enter the password

Alternatively, Security Mode can also be disabled via the quick settings tile.

Reactivating Security Mode after Deactivation

1. Open **VollaLauncher** -> Swipe **right twice** -> **Settings**
2. Press and hold "Security Mode is OFF," slide to "Security Mode is ON," and release.
3. Check "Use existing password" and confirm with OK

**Warning:** If the password is lost, there is no way to disable or modify Security Mode for security reasons. The only solution is a complete phone reset (data loss).

Adjusting Security Mode Settings

Changes to the Security Mode settings can only be made when Security Mode is **disabled**.

1. Open **VollaLauncher** -> Swipe **right twice** -> **Settings**
2. Press and hold "Security Mode is ON," slide to "Security Mode is OFF," and release.
3. Enter the password and confirm with OK.

Now, the configuration interface is unlocked and accessible via:

1. **VollaOS System Settings** ("Settings")
2. **Privacy & Security**
3. **Security Mode**

Screenshot_20241113-234257_Sicherheitsmodus Einstellungen_1.png

Tab: APP LOCKER

Disable Installation of New Apps
If this option is enabled, no new applications can be installed. This helps protect the VollaPhone from the installation of potentially harmful or unwanted applications.

Link microG
If this option is enabled, microG will be automatically disabled when Security Mode is active.

Lock/Unlock Apps
Each app can be locked by tapping the open **lock symbol** next to the app or unlocked by tapping the closed **lock symbol**.

Locked apps cannot be used and will not appear in the app overview of the launcher (phone home screen). This is useful when temporarily lending the phone to others while hiding apps that should not be accessed.

Screenshot_20241113-234257_Sicherheitsmodus Einstellungen-ungesperrteApps.png

Screenshot_20241113-235442_Sicherheitsmodus Einstellungen-gesperrteApps.png

Tab: FIREWALL

Inclusion List for Domains
When enabled, you can use the **three-dot menu (top right)** to:

1. **"Import List"** – Import custom lists (.txt) from the phone storage (must be saved there beforehand).
2. **"Import Security Template"** – Import predefined whitelists (allowed domains) from https://github.com/HelloVolla/security-mode-templates. These can be selected via checkboxes.

Screenshot_20241114-002004_Sicherheitsmodus Einstellungen.png

Screenshot_20241114-002015_Sicherheitsmodus Einstellungen.png

Screenshot_20241114-002034_Sicherheitsmodus Einstellungen.png

Exclusion List for Domains
When enabled, you can use the **three-dot menu (top right)** to:

1. **"Import List"** – Import custom lists (.txt) from the phone storage (must be saved there beforehand).
2. **"Import Security Template"** – Import predefined blacklists (blocked domains) from https://github.com/HelloVolla/security-mode-templates. These can be selected via checkboxes.

Screenshot_20241114-002050_Sicherheitsmodus Einstellungen.png

Screenshot_20241114-002104_Sicherheitsmodus Einstellungen.png

Screenshot_20241114-002114_Sicherheitsmodus Einstellungen.png

Add Individual Domain
Tap the **"+" symbol (bottom right)** to open an input mask for adding a specific domain manually.

Screenshot_20241114-002143_Sicherheitsmodus Einstellungen.png

Screenshot_20241114-002159_Sicherheitsmodus Einstellungen.png

Tab: APP FIREWALL

In this section, individual apps can be disconnected from internet access to prevent unwanted data transfer.

1. Find the desired app in the list.
2. Tap the **globe icon**.
3. The app will now appear in the restricted list with a **crossed-out globe icon**, indicating that internet access is blocked.

To restore internet access, simply tap the **crossed-out globe icon** next to the app. The app will then move back to the unrestricted list and regain internet access.

**Warning:**
Using the **APP FIREWALL** may cause certain app features to stop working or even render an app non-functional, depending on whether the app requires an internet connection for specific functions (e.g., additional features, data transmission, etc.). This must be determined through trial and error.

Screenshot_20241114-004257_Sicherheitsmodus Einstellungen.png