Android lock screen not working? Whether you’ve forgotten your password, fingerprint won’t scan, or face unlock fails, these issues can lock you out of your own phone.
Here’s how to regain access and fix common lock screen problems on any Android device.
Forgot Password/PIN/Pattern
1. Use Google Account (Older Android)
For Android 4.4 and below:
- Enter wrong password 5 times
- Tap “Forgot Pattern” or similar option
- Sign in with Google account linked to phone
- Create new lock screen password
2. Use Samsung Find My Mobile
For Samsung phones:
- Visit findmymobile.samsung.com on computer
- Sign in with Samsung account
- Select your device → Unlock
- Follow instructions to remove lock
3. Android Device Manager Method
- Visit android.com/find on computer
- Sign in with Google account
- Select locked device
- Choose “Erase” (will factory reset)
- Set up phone as new device
Hardware Button Recovery
4. Recovery Mode Reset
⚠️ This will erase all data
- Turn off phone completely
- Hold Volume Up + Power (varies by brand)
- Navigate to “Wipe data/factory reset”
- Confirm with Power button
- Wait for reset to complete
5. Download Mode (Samsung)
- Turn off phone
- Hold Volume Down + Power + Home
- Use Odin software on computer
- Flash firmware to bypass lock
Biometric Issues
6. Fingerprint Not Working
Clean sensor:
- Wipe fingerprint sensor with soft cloth
- Ensure fingers are clean and dry
- Remove screen protector if covering sensor
Re-register fingerprints:
- Use backup PIN to unlock
- Settings → Biometrics → Fingerprints
- Delete old fingerprints
- Add new fingerprint scans
7. Face Unlock Problems
Improve recognition:
- Good lighting when setting up
- Remove glasses/hat during setup
- Hold phone at eye level
- Look directly at camera
Reset face data:
- Settings → Biometrics → Face unlock
- Delete face data
- Set up face unlock again
8. Smart Lock Issues
Check Smart Lock settings:
- Settings → Security → Smart Lock
- Verify trusted devices are connected
- Check trusted places are accurate
- Ensure on-body detection works properly
Screen Hardware Problems
9. Unresponsive Touch Screen
Clean the screen:
- Remove screen protector if bubbled
- Clean with microfiber cloth
- Check for cracks or damage
Test touch sensitivity:
- Settings → Display → Touch sensitivity
- Enable high sensitivity if using screen protector
10. Broken Screen Workaround
Use USB mouse:
- Connect USB mouse via OTG adapter
- Navigate using mouse cursor
- Disable lock screen in settings
Mirror to computer:
- Enable USB debugging (if previously enabled)
- Use scrcpy or Vysor to control phone
- Remove lock screen remotely
Software Solutions
11. Safe Mode Test
- Hold power button → Long press “Power off”
- Tap “Safe mode” → OK
- Test lock screen in safe mode
- If works → Third-party app causing issue
12. Clear Lock Screen Cache
For rooted phones:
- Use file manager with root access
- Navigate to /data/system/
- Delete files: gesture.key, password.key, locksettings.db
- Restart phone
13. ADB Commands (Developer)
If USB debugging enabled:
- Connect to computer
- Open command prompt
- Type:
adb shell rm /data/system/gesture.key - Restart phone
Brand-Specific Solutions
Samsung Phones
- Samsung Find My Mobile unlock
- Samsung Smart Switch emergency unlock
- Bixby voice commands (if enabled)
Xiaomi/MIUI
- Mi Account unlock via website
- Fastboot mode unlock
- Mi Unlock tool (requires bootloader unlock)
OnePlus
- OnePlus account recovery
- Fastboot commands
- MSM Download Tool (advanced)
Professional Help Options
14. Contact Manufacturer
- Samsung: 1800-40-7267864
- Xiaomi: 1800-103-6286
- OnePlus: 1800-102-6737
- Provide proof of purchase
15. Visit Service Center
Bring these documents:
- Purchase receipt or invoice
- Government ID proof
- Phone box with IMEI matching
Prevention Tips
Avoid Future Lockouts:
- Set up multiple unlock methods (PIN + fingerprint + face)
- Remember security questions
- Keep Google/Samsung account active
- Enable Smart Lock for trusted locations
- Write down backup PIN securely
Security Best Practices:
- Use strong but memorable passwords
- Don’t share unlock methods
- Regular biometric updates
- Keep recovery accounts accessible
Data Recovery Options
Before Factory Reset:
- Try all software methods first
- Check if data is backed up to cloud
- Consider professional data recovery services
- Some data may be unrecoverable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will factory reset delete everything? A: Yes, but data backed up to Google/Samsung cloud can be restored.
Q: Can I unlock without losing data? A: Depends on Android version and available recovery options. Newer phones have fewer bypass methods.
Q: Why did my fingerprint stop working? A: Usually due to dirty sensor, software updates, or finger condition changes.
Q: Is it safe to use third-party unlock tools? A: Be cautious - many are scams or malware. Stick to official manufacturer tools.
Conclusion
Lock screen problems range from simple forgotten passwords to hardware failures. Start with the least destructive methods (Google account, manufacturer tools) before attempting factory reset.
For newer Android versions, prevention is key since bypass methods are limited for security reasons.