The protection of any smartphone Android typically involves setting a PIN (numeric code), pattern (connection of at least 4 points), or password (alphanumeric code). Unfortunately it could happen that the user forgets the configured security method. The good news is that there is actually a possibility of gaining access again, the bad news is that there is no guarantee.
In fact, even if you have enabled the unlocking of your smartphone using your fingerprint or facial recognition, these biometric methods cannot serve as your main security measure. For example, when you restart your phone, you need to enter your previously chosen PIN, pattern, or password.
We’re here to explore all your options for dealing with a forgotten PIN or password. Here’s how to behave.
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1. Use Smart Lock to unlock your Android screen
In case the user can no longer access their Android smartphone due to a forgotten PIN, pattern or password, the Smart Lock feature could come to the rescue. Smart Lock per Android is a way to quickly and easily bypass your phone’s lock screen when certain criteria are met.
For example, you can keep your phone unlocked when it is “on the move” with you (in your hand or in your pocket), when you are near home or another trusted location, and finally when a specific Bluetooth device is connected.
Let’s say you’ve set up Smart Lock on your Android phone to automatically unlock it when it’s connected to your home Wi-Fi. This means that if you are within range of your home Wi-Fi network, your phone will automatically unlock, even if you can’t remember your normal unlock code.
However, this solution it will not help you reset your forgotten PIN or forgotten password. In fact, to change the Smart Lock settings, you still need to remember the security method configured previously. The biggest problem is that Smart Lock cannot be used to access the phone after it has been restarted. If you manage to regain access using Smart Lock, your only option is to back up all your important data before proceeding with one of the following solutions.
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2. Per i Samsung Galaxy c’è SmartThings Find
For owners of Samsung Galaxy, there is a top-notch option to regain access to Android in case of forgotten PIN or forgotten password. You can use the tool SmartThings Find your Samsung to unlock your device and reset the lock screen security remotely.
The only prerequisite is to already have logged in with your Samsung account on your device, which typically happens during initial setup. Furthermore, the device should be connected to Wi-Fi or mobile data.
The first thing to do is visit the SmartThings Find website using a desktop or mobile browser. After signing in with your Samsung account and granting location permission, a will appear list of connected devices. At this point, all that remains is to select the device you want to unlock.
Then press the “” buttonUnlock” from the Tools menu. A pop up will then open explaining that your phone will be unlocked remotely and all screen lock information will be deleted. Select ” againUnlock” to proceed. Your phone will be unlocked and you will need to set up a new security method for the lock screen.
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3. Reset Android with Google’s “Find My Device” tool
Unfortunately, if you don’t have a Samsung Galaxy device, your options are pretty bleak in the event of a forgotten PIN or forgotten password. This involves remotely resetting the device or performing a factory reset. The first is useful if you cannot access your smartphone. While the second does the same thing, just not remotely.
Per remotely reset the deviceyou need to use the tool Google “Find My Device” or “Find my device”, which is automatically available for all Android devices. Just log in with the same Google account as your phone on the dedicated site.”google.com/android/find”, choose the blocked device and use the tool “Reset device“.
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4. Last resort: reset your smartphone to factory settings
For the factory resetyou need to start the “Recovery mode“. A special interface that can be accessed via a key combination. Which, for most Android devices coincides with: power + volume up.
However, some models may have different access methods to Recovery Mode. Therefore, it is advisable to consult the manufacturer’s website or one of the many forums on the web specialized in the subject. But, let’s get to the action.
With the device turned off, hold down the buttons until the screen lights up and the manufacturer’s logo appears. Once the keys are released, the user should enter the Recovery Mode. Use the volume buttons to highlight “Wipe Data/Factory Reset” and press the power button to confirm. The smartphone will automatically perform a factory reset. As soon as the reset is complete, the user can restart the smartphone by choosing the “Restart/Restart system now”. Keep in mind that you will need to log in with the same Google account.
to know more: Android, operating system features
