Safe Mode in the Axon app

When you need to hand your device to someone else for an action such as getting a signature or sharing a QR code with them, it's important that they can't access other information in the app or on your device. Safe Mode activates when you start certain workflows in the Axon app, and does the following:

  • Locks in-app navigation
  • Shows a notification that the app is in Safe Mode
  • Puts the device OS into Do Not Disturb mode
  • Prompts you to enable Screen Pinning in Android, or Guided Access in iOS, which prevents switching to other apps
  • Requires you to authenticate again to exit Safe Mode and the workflow you started

Requirements

  • Using the Axon app on Android or iOS - Safe Mode is not supported when using the Axon app through your browser
  • Axon app version 1.7.0 or later
    • This version is supported on Android 12 or higher and iOS 17 or higher
  • Biometric or PIN sign-in enabled for your device

We strongly recommend using Screen Pinning (Android) or Guided Access (iOS). These features must be enabled on your phone for you to use them in the Axon app. Instructions for enabling these features can be found on the Google or Apple support sites. You only need to enable the feature; when Safe Mode is activated in the Axon app, it will prompt you to turn on the feature on.

Using Safe Mode

When you start a supported workflow, Safe Mode will automatically activate.

  1. When prompted, follow the instructions to turn on Screen Pinning or Guided Access.
    1. You can choose to continue without turning on the additional OS security; however, we strongly recommend using those features so the other person can't access your other apps or information.
  2. Hand the device to the other person to complete their part of the workflow.
  3. When they hand it back, select the option to submit, and then authenticate with biometrics or PIN. The Axon app exits Safe Mode.
  4. Turn off the additional OS security using the instructions for Screen Pinning or Guided Access, if you turned it on in step 1.

Workflows that start Safe Mode

Currently, Safe Mode activates when starting the following workflows:

  • eSignature

More workflows will be added in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can Safe Mode block the Home screen or other apps?
    1. No. Turning on Screen Pinning (Android) or Guided Access (iOS) will block access to the home screen and other apps.
  2. What if I forget OS lockdown?
    1. In‑app navigation stays locked, but the device remains vulnerable to system‑level access. The app will remind you to enable it.
  3. Can I manually start Safe Mode?
    1. No. It starts and ends based on the workflow.
  4. Is Safe Mode available on desktop or when using the app in a browser?
    1. No. It’s only in the native Axon app for iOS and Android.
  5. Does Safe Mode log activity performed when it is active?
    1. No. It only restricts access; it does not store or transmit interaction data.
  6. What setup should your organization do?
    1. Biometrics or PIN authentication and Screen Pinning or Guided Access enabled on the device, and train users on these OS features.