How to unlock your Galaxy device if you forgot your PIN, pattern or password
If you forgot the security PIN, pattern, or password for your Galaxy phone or tablet, and cannot access your device, you may need to factory reset your device to be able to use it again. However, there are two precautionary features you can use to ensure you never get locked out again: you can use Samsung Find My Mobile to remotely unlock your device or the Smart Lock feature to keep your device unlocked. Make sure to set up these features so you can always access your device.
Note: Device screenshots and menus may vary depending on the device model and software version.
Note: If you have not previously enabled Find My Mobile and Remote Unlock, please skip to the last section in this article.
If you have enabled the Find My Mobile and Remote Unlock features before losing your PIN, pattern, or password, you will be able to use the following steps to unlock your device. However, your device must also meet the following conditions:
- Your device must be turned on.
- Your device must be connected to Wi-Fi or a mobile network.
- Your Samsung account must be registered on your device.
- The Find My Mobile and Remote Unlock features must be enabled on your device. To do so, navigate to and open Settings, then tap Biometrics and security, and then tap Find My Mobile. Tap the switch at the top of the screen, and then tap the switch next to Remote Unlock to turn it on. If you have a screen lock set up, you will be prompted to back it up. Tap Agree, and then enter your credentials. For more detailed instructions, please refer to our Find My Mobile guide.
Please use the following steps to unlock your device:
The Smart Lock feature allows you to choose certain conditions when it’s okay to circumvent the PIN, pattern, or password you have in place to access your phone. These conditions consist of on-body detection, establishing a trusted location, or connecting with a trusted device.
If you set the Smart Lock feature before forgetting your PIN, pattern, or password, you can take advantage of this feature. In other words, you can unlock your mobile device, and keep it unlocked, when one of its conditions is met. For example, if you have set your home as a trusted location, your device will detect the location and automatically unlock itself when you get home.
Important:
- Before performing a factory reset on your device, you will need to know your Google account information and password that was used to set up your device.
- Additionally, the Find My Device feature must be enabled on your device.
- Performing a factory reset will erase all personal data and downloaded apps. You will not be able to recover your data after the factory reset.
If you are still unable to unlock your phone or tablet, you can factory reset your device using the Google Find My Device website. Keep in mind that factory resetting your device will revert your device back to its original factory state.
Note: If you have more than one device, select your desired device.
If you have your phone but cannot remember your account details, there is still one last solution: visiting a Samsung Service Centre or your phone provider. With proof of purchase, they will be able to factory reset your phone. Keep in mind you will get access to your phone but any data on it will be erased. Please note if your device needs to be unlocked from Google device protection, it will be treated as out of warranty repair and charges may apply.
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