Setting up a PIN for your Android device provides a basic level of security for your smartphone or tablet. Even if you opt for a fingerprint reader to unlock your device, the Android OS will still ask you to input your PIN as a backup protocol.
The downside of using a security PIN is that you can forget them and lock yourself out of your device. If you find yourself in one of these unfortunate situations, however, there’s no need to panic — we’ve got your back. Just follow the steps below to locate and reset your device remotely.
Using Find My Device
If your phone is running Android 5.0 Lollipop or a later version of Android, then your best bet is to use Google’s Find My Device. You’re going to have to know the email address and password for your Google account, and your device will need to be on and connected to the internet for this to work. For years, Google allowed you to change your PIN via Find My Device, but sadly it no longer does. You can choose to Erase device, which will allow you to set it up as new with a new PIN, but this will wipe everything from your phone, including photos, messages, and other files. If you haven’t backed up, then this should be a last resort. Here’s how to do it:
- Visit the Find My Device site on your computer, laptop, or another device and log in with your Google account.
- It will probably default to your current phone, but if you have multiple devices registered, you can select the correct device by clicking its icon and name in the upper-left corner of the page.
- Click the Erase device option on the left.
- You’ll likely be prompted to enter your Google account details again.
- Once the device is wiped you can set it up afresh with a new PIN (make sure you remember it this time).
Using Samsung’s Find My Mobile
If you have a Samsung phone, created a Samsung account, and activated Find My Mobile during the setup process, then you can also use this feature to unlock your phone remotely. You will need to know the email address and password associated with your Samsung account, and your device will need to be on and connected to the internet. Here’s how:
- Visit the Find My Mobile website on your computer, laptop, or another device and log in with your Samsung account.
- Your current device and phone number should be displayed in the upper-left corner of the page. Peruse the options on the right side of the page and click Unlock my device.
- You can then unlock your phone remotely by entering your password for your Samsung account.
Unlocking Android 4.4 KitKat or earlier devices
The unlock process is much simpler when you forget your password, pattern, or PIN on an older Android device. After entering the wrong PIN five times, you’ll see a prompt under the login window that says Forgot pattern, Forgot PIN, or Forgot password. Tap that, and enter your username and the password for your Google account to change your password, PIN, or pattern. This will give you immediate access.
Can’t remember your Google account?
If you’re having trouble remembering your Google account details, then visit the Google Account Recovery website on your computer or cellphone IMEI unlocker (Recommended Website) laptop and work through the provided steps.
Factory data reset
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Your last resort is to perform a factory reset through the recovery mode menu, but this will erase everything that’s on the phone. Also, keep in mind that your phone may have Factory Reset Protection (FRP). It’s turned on by default in every Android 5.1 device (and later) to deter thieves from stealing your phone. If FRP is on, then it’s going to ask for your Google account details even after you perform a factory reset.
If you do want to try a factory reset, however, then check out our guide on how to use recovery mode. Once reset, you’ll have to set up your phone as if it were new. Also, make sure that you take note of your password or PIN this time.
