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Someone unlocking your phone with your face or fingerprint while you're asleep
If someone holds your phone to your face or places your finger on the sensor while you're asleep or incapacitated, they can access everything on your device. It leaves no trace — the phone just sees a normal unlock.
What You Might Notice
Your phone shows it was used at times you were asleep
Check screen time or battery usage for activity during hours you were definitely asleep.
Someone knows content from your phone they shouldn't
Messages read, photos seen, apps checked — while you were sleeping.
What You Can Do
This is not an exhaustive list. Every situation is different — use what applies to yours.
Switch from biometric to PIN/password
A PIN can't be used while you're asleep. A face or fingerprint can. For at-risk situations, PIN is more secure.
Enable lockdown mode before sleeping
Both iOS and Android have lockdown/power-off options that disable biometric unlock. Use this overnight.
Important: Always consider your physical safety first.
This resource provides general information, not personal advice. Every situation is different. The actions suggested here may not be safe in your specific circumstances particularly if the person causing harm could notice changes to your devices or accounts.
If you need personalised support, contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or your local specialist domestic violence service. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
Forcing or tricking the victim into unlocking devices with fingerprint or face recognition while asleep, intoxicated, or under duress. May include physically placing the victim's finger on the sensor while they sleep. Bypasses all password security and leaves no digital trace — the unlock looks legitimate to the device.
Mitigations for this technique are under development. If you have suggestions on how to improve this content, please submit a pattern.
The TFA Matrix is a research framework under active development. Technique classifications, detection methods, and mitigations reflect current understanding and are subject to revision. This framework does not constitute forensic methodology, legal evidence standards, or clinical diagnostic criteria. Practitioners should apply professional judgement appropriate to their discipline and jurisdiction.