Secure Mode (Privacy Switch): How It Works and When to Use It on EF & TF Models

Original HubSpot URL: https://learn.simpled.uk/secure-mode-privacy-switch-how-it-works-and-when-to-use-it-on-ef-tf-models

If you are using the EF or TF smart lock models, you may have noticed a small internal switch often referred to as the Privacy Switch or Secure Mode.

This feature is designed to temporarily restrict access — even if valid codes or fingerprints exist.

In this article, we’ll explain:

  • What Secure Mode does

  • Who can unlock the door while it’s active

  • How to turn it on and off

  • When it makes sense to use it

What Is Secure Mode?

On the Simpled EF Smart Lock and Simpled TF Smart Lock, Secure Mode (Privacy Switch) is a physical switch located on the inside panel of the lock.

When you slide the button UP, Secure Mode is enabled.

Once activated:

  • Only the Main Administrator (Owner) can unlock the door

  • Unlocking is possible via:

    • The app

    • The Administrator Passcode (found under Settings → Basic)

  • Normal user codes will not work

  • Fingerprints will not work

  • Cards/fobs will not work

In short, the lock ignores all regular access methods while Secure Mode is turned on.

Why Would You Use Secure Mode?

Secure Mode is useful in situations where you want temporary full privacy, even if others normally have access.

For example:

  • In a bedroom, when you don’t want anyone entering for a period of time

  • In a private office, during meetings or confidential work

  • In shared accommodation, when you need guaranteed privacy

  • In any situation where you want to override existing user access temporarily

  • For bathrooms, locker rooms or other personal spaces.

It provides an extra layer of control beyond normal permissions.

While this feature increases security and control, it may not be suitable for all environments — especially public or high-traffic settings — unless intentionally used.

Where this feature could create unintended issues, such as with short term rentals, for AirBnB, or on communal doors in a shared building, this switch can be easily disabled in the app.

How to Turn Secure Mode Off

Secure Mode can be disabled in two ways:

  1. Manually

Slide the privacy switch back down to turn it off.

  1. Through Settings (Permanent Disable Option)

If you do not want the physical Privacy Switch to function at all (for example, in public settings where accidental activation could be disruptive), you can disable it in the lock settings:

Go to:

Lock Settings → Privacy Lock → Set to Off

This prevents the Privacy button from activating Secure Mode.

Both the Owner (Main Administrator) and an Admin can disable the Privacy Lock setting.

Important Difference on the EF Model

On the Simpled EF Smart Lock only:

Opening the door mechanically using the inside handle automatically returns the privacy switch to the Off position.

This means Secure Mode resets once the door is opened from the inside.

This automatic reset does not apply in the same way on the TF model.

What If My Code Suddenly Stops Working?

If valid fingerprints, codes, or cards stop working unexpectedly, the first thing to check is whether Secure Mode has been activated.

This is one of the most common reasons for “access not working” issues.

Simply check the internal privacy switch position before troubleshooting further.

Final Thoughts

Secure Mode is designed to give you temporary, complete control over who can enter — even overriding existing user permissions.

It’s ideal for private spaces like bedrooms and offices, or anytime you want short-term restricted access.

If you don’t need this feature in your setting, you can disable it in the lock settings to prevent accidental activation.

Used correctly, Secure Mode is a powerful privacy tool built into your EF and TF smart locks.