Guide
How to lock or password-protect an NFC tag
Updated October 11, 2026
Password protection stops anyone without the password from rewriting, erasing or formatting a tag, while every phone can still read it. A permanent lock makes the tag read-only forever and can't be undone. In NFC Wizard, scan the tag, open Tag Tools, tap Lock, then choose Set Password or Permanent Lock.
Password or permanent lock?
| Password protection | Permanent lock | |
|---|---|---|
| Can phones still read it? | Yes | Yes |
| Who can rewrite it? | Only someone with the password | Nobody, ever |
| Can it be undone? | Yes, remove the password with Unlock | No |
| Best for | Tags you may update later | Final tags in public places |
Set a password
- Write and test the tag first, so it holds exactly what you want.
- Scan the tag so it becomes your active tag.
- Open Tag Tools and tap Lock.
- Tap Set Password, enter the password twice, and confirm.
- Hold the tag near your phone until you see "Password set. Writing now needs the password."
A tag password can't be recovered. Store it somewhere safe.
Remove a password
- Scan the tag, open Tag Tools, and tap Unlock.
- Enter the password the tag was protected with.
- Hold the tag near your phone. It can be rewritten again.
Lock a tag permanently
- Scan the tag, open Tag Tools, and tap Lock.
- Tap Permanent Lock.
- Read the warning and confirm. The tag becomes read-only forever.
- Hold the tag near your phone until the lock completes.
Data already on the tag stays, but nothing can ever be changed again. Double-check the content before you confirm.
Which tags support it
Password protection works on NTAG213, NTAG215, and NTAG216 tags. The NTAG21x password is 32 bits, which stops casual rewriting but isn't strong cryptographic security, so don't rely on it to protect sensitive data.
Every lock and password change is recorded in the app's security log, so you can see what you did to which tag.
Questions, answered
Can a locked NFC tag still be read?
Yes. Both password protection and a permanent lock only block writing. Any phone can still read the tag.
I forgot a tag's password. Can I reset it?
No. The password can't be recovered, so the tag can't be rewritten without it. It can still be read.
Can I unlock a permanently locked tag?
No. A permanent lock is irreversible by design.
Download free
Lock and password tools are free in NFC Wizard.