Pattern Locks Are Unsafe: Secure Your Lenovo ThinkPhone Phone Now with These Tips

Pattern locks have been available for about as long as people can remember, and they have been hugely popular with people thanks to how easy it is to simply swipe your screen and unlock your smartphone, as against, say, keying in the 4-digit PIN/ 6-digit PIN. However, pattern locks are easy to crack, and today, we bring you all you want to know about pattern locks and how to create a hard pattern lock. Further to this, we also tell you how to move beyond pattern locks and what to do in case you forgot the hard pattern lock you just set and are unable to unlock your smartphone.

Part 1: What You Need to Know About Pattern Locks

Pattern lock is an Android-only feature that makes it easy for users to have a modicum of security on their smartphones. Most users do not prefer using and remembering a PIN to unlock the smartphone. Creating a pattern makes it easier, somehow.

There is a 9-point grid on which you swipe your finger from point to point, in any direction, and when you take your finger off, that pattern you swiped becomes the key to unlock your smartphone.

Pattern locks were exceedingly common only a few years ago, and they are not recommended for use any longer due to concerns (mentioned later in the article).

1.1: Popularity and Usage

Old habits die hard, or so they say, right? That’s because it is true. We are creatures of habit, and pattern locks have been around for a long, long time. We are accustomed to pattern locks. So, even with even easier technologies such as fingerprint recognition and face recognition, we tend to gravitate towards the familiar old pattern lock.

The only thing is, there is a reason why pattern locks are no longer the preferred option to use for unlocking your smartphones. As it happens, that reason is security, and it can be very easy for humans to take a swipe (pardon the pun) at your pattern lock. And guess what? The research conducted suggests that they would get it right with an unsettling accuracy.

1.2: Advantages and Drawbacks

With on-the-go lifestyles, our smartphones have become indispensable and contain some of the most sensitive aspects of our lives – IDs, credit and debit cards in digital wallets, photo and video memories, business documents – you name it, the smartphones have it, on the go. This has opened our lives up to the public at large, and if someone steals our smartphone or, best case, finds it, the only barrier preventing them from being privy to all that wealth of our sensitive information is that screen lock – the pattern lock that we set on our smartphones. That’s it – the single pattern lock stands between malicious actors and our data. You might be beginning to realize just how crazy this is.

Advantages of Pattern Locks

There are two advantages to using pattern locks. One, they are better than nothing. Two, they are easy to use. And that’s about it. There is no third advantage to pattern locks. We might think we set a hard pattern lock that nobody could guess, but, as research proves, we might be thinking too low of human prowess.

Disadvantages of Pattern Locks

Security, or rather, the lack of it, is the lone disadvantage of using a pattern lock. What good is a pattern lock that can be easily deciphered? Sure, they are easy to use, and they are better than not having anything, but would you really want to protect your life’s data with something that could be, as researchers found out, breached in under 5 attempts? We don’t think you do!

The research found that 64% of test subjects who were shown videos of people unlocking their phones could correctly guess a 6-point pattern lock, that too after viewing the video only once! That number shot up to 80% if they were allowed to see the video again. That is simply astounding and a nightmare for security. When it comes to PINs, only 11% could guess a 6-digit PIN after viewing the unlocking video once, and that number shot up to 27% when they could see the video two times.

Part 2: How To Create a Hard Pattern Lock (Including Remembering Complex Patterns)

Now, if you must continue using a pattern lock, let’s help you know how to create a hard pattern lock that would not be as easy to decipher as easy pattern locks. For that, you should know how people use pattern locks, the kind of pattern locks they create, and the ones that are the most commonly used pattern locks. That way, you can avoid those fallacies and create a hard pattern lock for your smartphone.

2.1: The Pattern Locks People Use Most Commonly

Marte Loge, an M.Sc. Computer Science student, gave a presentation on pattern locks at DEFCON 23 and made a bold claim. She said, “Tell me who you are, and I will tell you your lock pattern.”

She presented the following statistics to support her claim:

• - In her research, she found that 77% of people started with one of the 4 corners when creating a pattern lock.
• - 44% of people started with the top-left dot and 15% with the top-right, while the bottom-left was preferred by 14% of her test subjects.
• - People set 5-point pattern locks on average, and most users were content with a 4-point pattern.

These are some of the most common pattern locks people create:

• - patterns in the shapes of alphabets,
• - patterns in the shapes of numerals,
• - patterns in any other simple shape, such as square, triangle, star, etc.

To understand how this is a security nightmare, the possible combinations for a 4-point pattern are a measly 1624, whereas by adding just 1 more point to the pattern and creating a 5-point pattern, the number of possible combinations becomes 7152, an increase of 5528 combinations. In stark contrast, creating a 9-point pattern would give you over 140,000 possible combinations!

2.2: How to Create a Hard Pattern Lock

Knowing what most people do when creating a pattern lock, it becomes easy to avoid those mistakes and instead create a hard pattern lock for oneself.

• - Do not start creating a pattern lock from any of the 4 corners of the grid.
• - Never use your first initial as your pattern lock.
• - Never use the shape of a numeral as your pattern lock.
• - Use all 9 points on the grid to create your pattern lock, and contrary to popular belief, you can go over the connecting lines several times, creating a hard pattern lock that would not be as easy for people to decipher!

Part 3: Going Beyond Pattern Locks

You might think that now that you have set a hard pattern lock, you are good to go. Hardly. Technology has evolved, so have methods to break into your device.

Step 1: Set a 6-digit PIN

The minimum you should do today is set a 6-digit PIN to unlock your phone. Consider this a necessary investment into the safety of your data residing on your smartphone.

Step 2: Use Fingerprint Recognition (or Face Recognition on Apple Devices)

All modern smartphones released over the last decade have come with fingerprint recognition. Using fingerprint recognition requires you to set a 6-digit PIN and then set a fingerprint to unlock your device. You can set additional fingerprints, too.

This way, your device is the most secure it can be today. In case your fingerprint is not recognized for any reason, the phone falls back on the 6-digit PIN that you can enter and unlock your phone.

While face recognition is available on both Android and Apple devices, it is truly secure only on Apple devices. This is why Apple iPhones released after the iPhone X in 2017 have come only with Face ID. They fall back on a minimum 6-digit PIN (called Passcode in Apple world) to unlock in case the face does not get recognized in the first attempt.

Part 4: How To Unlock Phone If Hard Pattern Lock Forgotten

Just in case you set a hard pattern lock and promptly forgot that abstruse pattern you just set, we have a tool for you to quickly unlock your phone in case of a forgotten hard pattern lock: Wondershare Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android)

Remove the Hard Pattern Lock on Your Lenovo ThinkPhone If You Forgot!

• Remove all Android screen locks (PIN/pattern/fingerprints/face ID) in minutes.
• Bypass the FRP lock of Samsung without a PIN or Google account.
• Everyone can handle the lock screen without any tech knowledge.
• Provide specific removal solutions to promise good success rate.

4,008,671 people have downloaded it

Download the latest version of Dr.Fone from the Wondershare website and launch the app.

Step 1: Click Android under Toolbox > Screen Unlock.

Step 2: Click Unlock Android Screen.

Step 3: Select your device manufacturer.

Step 4: Prepare your device to unlock the screen.

When the greyed Next button becomes available, click it and wait for your device to be unlocked.

All data on the Lenovo ThinkPhone device is wiped under this method. Select Samsung phones may be unlocked without data loss. Check this list for devices that may be unlocked without data loss.

Closing Words

Whether it is an easy pattern lock or a hard pattern lock, the fact is that pattern locks are antiquated and a security nightmare. A minimum 6-digit PIN must be used, and using fingerprint recognition is the preferred way to go for Android devices. Using fingerprint recognition will require that users create a 6-digit PIN. On Apple devices launched after 2017, there is Face ID, Apple’s marketing term for face recognition. If you did indeed still set a hard pattern lock, only to promptly forget it, use Wondershare Dr.Fone – Screen Unlock (Android) to seamlessly unlock your phone right now.

How To Unlock Any Lenovo ThinkPhone Phone Password Using Emergency Call

Today, smartphones are an extension of people. Securing them with a PIN, passcode, pattern, fingerprint, or face unlock has become the norm. It’s like putting a digital lock on our private world.

But you have to face it: sometimes, people forget the codes they set to protect their phones or can’t unlock them with their injured fingers or faces. Picture this: you’re staring at your phone screen, trying to recall that password, but it’s not coming to you.

That’s where emergency call bypass is a nifty little trick that can be a lifesaver. In this article, you’ll learn how to unlock any phone password using the emergency call technique. The article will also explore other methods for when your memory fails you. So, read through and never go through this trouble again.

Part 1: What Is the Emergency Call Bypass Method?

The Android emergency call bypass method is a lesser-known workaround for those unfortunate moments when you’re locked out of your phone. This method exploits a loophole in the phone’s lock screen, allowing you to access your device even when you’ve forgotten your password, PIN, or pattern. It’s like finding a secret backdoor when the front door is bolted shut.

“How can unlocking Vivo, Oppo, and Samsung phones using emergency calls be effective?” You may ask. Imagine you need to access important information on your phone but can’t remember your lock screen code. Instead of panicking or rushing to a technician, the emergency call bypass can be a quick and handy solution. It’s particularly useful when immediate access to your phone is crucial and you don’t have time to reset your password through official channels.

Limitations of the Emergency Call Bypass Method

However, it’s important to note that this method has its limitations. It primarily works on older Android devices, specifically those running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) and below. As smartphone technology has evolved, manufacturers have patched many loopholes to enhance security. So, this method might not work for you if you have a more recent Android version.

But don’t worry – if you’re locked out of a newer phone, you can try several other methods, which you will explore later in this article. Remember, the emergency call bypass can be a lifesaver in specific scenarios. However, it’s always best to use such methods responsibly and ethically. And, of course, you should always note your passwords.

Part 2: How To Perform Emergency Call Bypass To Unlock Screen

Unlocking your Android phone without a password using the Emergency Call Bypass method can be tricky, but it’s doable, especially on devices running Android OS 5.0 (Lollipop) and below. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to unlock any phone password using the emergency call feature:

• Step 1: Start by tapping the Emergency Call button on your lock screen. This will bring up the emergency dialer screen.

• Step 2: Type a series of special symbols on the dialer screen, such as asterisks (*). Do this several times in a row.
• Step 3: Double-tap the string of symbols to highlight them, then copy the string. Now, tap on the screen to paste the copied string. Repeat this process 10 to 11 times until you can no longer highlight the series.
• Step 4: Go back to the lock screen. Open the Camera app by tapping the camera icon or sliding left. Simultaneously, pull down the Notification Panel from the top.
• Step 5: In the Notification Panel, tap the gear icon to try and access your device’s settings.
• Step 6: When prompted for a password, long-press and paste the copied string into the password field. Repeat this several times until the option to paste is no longer available.
• Step 7: Keep pasting the string until the interface crashes. The lock screen should disappear, and the camera interface will expand. After some time, the camera app should also crash, and your device will unlock, displaying the home screen.

This method, while unconventional, has been known to work on various Android 5 devices, including Samsung models. However, using this technique responsibly and only on devices you own or have permission to access is important. Remember, this method exploits a security flaw and should be used as a last resort.

Part 3: Other Ways To Unlock Your Screen

While the emergency call bypass for Android method is interesting, it’s largely unreliable and outdated, mainly effective on older Android versions. Modern devices have significantly improved security, making this method obsolete. There are other, more reliable methods for those needing to unlock their phone’s screen.

Click here

Method 1: Wondershare Dr.Fone – Screen Unlock

Wondershare Dr.Fone is a comprehensive software solution for various mobile issues, including screen unlocking. It’s especially useful when you’ve forgotten your password, pattern, or PIN. Here’s how you can use Dr.Fone to unlock your screen:

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android)

The Best UnlockJunky Alternative to Bypass FRP and Solve Your Screen Locks

• Completely unlinked from the previous Google account, it won’t be traced or blocked by it anymore.
• Remove all Android screen locks (PIN/pattern/fingerprints/face ID) in minutes.
• Compatiable with various Android models.
• Provide specific removal solutions to promise good success rate.

4,008,670 people have downloaded it

• Step 1: Launch the Dr.Fone toolkit and go to Toolbox > Screen Unlock. Connect your Android device to your PC.

• Step 2: On the next page, choose Android.

• Step 3: Select Unlock Android Screen, as this is specifically for bypassing the lock screen

• Step 4: Select the brand of your device.

• Step 5: Click Remove without Data Loss to ensure your data stays intact.

• Step 6: Confirm device details. Then, enter “000000” to confirm and initiate the unlocking process.

• Step 7: The software will provide specific instructions to put your device into download mode. Follow them.

• Step 8: Once the process is complete, click Done. If it doesn’t work the first time, try again.

Method 2: Using “Forgot PIN/Passcode” and Google Account

You can use the Forgot PIN/Passcode feature if you’ve linked your phone to a Google account. After multiple failed attempts to unlock your phone, you’ll see a prompt to reset the password via your Google account credentials.

Method 3: Forcing a Data Reset on Your Android Phone

As a last resort, you can perform a factory reset. This will erase all data on your device but remove the lock screen. Access the recovery mode by pressing a combination of keys (usually volume up/down and the power button) and then selecting Wipe data/Factory reset.

Method 4: Booting Into Safe Mode

Booting into safe mode can bypass third-party lock screens. This method won’t work on the default lock screen but can be helpful if an app sets the lock.

In summary, while the emergency call bypass is a thing of the past, there are still various ways to unlock your phone. There’s always a solution, whether through a sophisticated tool like Wondershare Dr.Fone or built-in Android features.

Conclusion

This guide explored how to bypass the Android lock screen using an emergency call. It mainly focused on outdated Android emergency call bypass and more reliable alternatives. Key takeaways include understanding that while older methods like the emergency call bypass are largely ineffective on modern devices, tools like Wondershare Dr.Fone offer a safe and trusted solution.

Learning to unlock your phone screen ensures you’re never locked out of your device, keeping it within your reach. Consider using Dr. Fone- Screen Unlock for a secure and effective way to bypass phone lock screens. It’s an excellent tool for regaining access to your device without risking your data.

Tips and Tricks for Setting Up your Lenovo ThinkPhone Phone Pattern Lock

Failing to remember the pattern lock of a phone is one of the most puzzling situations for Android users. Unlike the famous OS, Android gives a seamless method to eliminate the issue.

You can attempt the methods below or an expert tool if you have forgotten the pattern lock on your gadget and reset it. However, we suggest you try Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock for a quick and safe solution. To make things more straightforward, we have given you other techniques as a workaround to the issue.

So, keep following us to unlock the lock screen pattern and use your phone again.

Part 1: What Is Android Pattern?

A pattern lock is used to identify the actual user by your Android phone. It is a widely used phone locking system and a secured one. Simply put, a pattern lock includes a line pattern you choose that you can draw to unlock a lock screen. You can enable this lock screen feature from the security menu in the settings application.

So, if you have set a pattern lock as a screen lock for your device, you will need to draw the exact pattern every time you log in.

Part 2: Best Tool to Unlock Your Pattern

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock

The most effective and quick tool to unlock a pattern lock is Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock by Wondershare. Dr.Fone is an all-in-one tool for all your Android needs and has been in the business for a long time. We suggest you use Dr.Fone. The following steps will help you unlock your device:

Step 1. Select the “Screen Unlock” option in the Dr.Fone interface.

Step 2. Select Unlock Android Screen

To unlock the pattern lock on your device, the “Unlock Android Screen” will guide you to finish the whole process.

Step 3. Select unlock mode

If you click “Remove without Data Loss,” only some limited Samsung or LG phone models can be unlocked without losing data. To unlock most phone brands’ screens, “100% Remove Screen Lock” is a better choice.

You can find the brand compatible with your phone in the following list.

Step 4. Go into Recovery Mode

Read the program instructions carefully; entering recovery mode is the prerequisite to unlocking the pattern lock.

(Here are 3 examples of Samsung phones)

How to get into recovery mode with Bixby

How to get into recovery mode without Bixby

How to get into recovery mode with Home button

Step 5. Instructions to Wipe Cache Partition

Now you’re in recovery mode, pick these options in the image below.

When the “Unlocked successfully” appears on the screen, you can access your device without a pattern lock or other locks!

Part 3: How to Bypass Android Pattern When You Forgot It?

1. Google Find My Device (For Android7.1.1 or later)

Step 1. Open the Android Device Manager site by typing https://www.google.com/android/find in an internet browser.

Step 2. You must give your Google ID credentials to sign in. Remember that this should be a similar Google account connected to your phone.

Step 3. After logging in, select your device.

Step 4. You will get three choices here, i.e., lock, erase, and ring.

Step 5. Click on the “Lock” button to reset its pattern.

Step 6. It will open another spring-up window. From here, you can give the new password to your phone.

Step 7. After affirming your PIN/password, you can give a recovery message and number (in case of theft only).

Step 8. Complete the process and sign out of your account on the browser.

2. Forgot Pattern (For Android 4.4 or earlier)

Step 1. First and foremost, give some wrong patterns to your phone. It will tell you that you attempted the incorrect pattern lock.

Step 2. On a similar window, click the “Forgot pattern” choice on the base.

Step 3. That will open another screen, which you can use to sidestep the forgotten pattern of Android. Select the choice for entering the Google Account credentials and continue.

Step 4. To reset the lock screen pattern, you must give the correct details of the Google ID previously logged into the Lenovo ThinkPhone device.

Step 5. After giving the correct details, you can provide another pattern lock to the phone.

Step 6. Affirm your decision and set another pattern lock on your phone.

3. Emergency Call Trick (For Android 5 or 5.1.1)

Step 1: Tap the Emergency Call button and enter ten asterisks (*).

Step 2: Copy and paste the asterisks on the dialer until you no longer see the paste choice.

Step 3: Return to the lock screen and tap on the camera symbol.

Step 4: Press the settings choice on your Android gadget after pulling down the notification tray. Now you will have the chance to enter the PIN/password, and you ought to continue unlocking your Android phone. Continue to paste until the lock screen UI crashes.

4. Safe Mode Boot (For Android 4.1 or later)

Step 1: You can bring up the power menu and hold the “Power Off” button for most phones, especially Android phones. A warning will spring up, asking whether you might want to Reboot to Safe Mode. Here, it would help if you had to press Ok.

Step 2: Clear your lock screen application’s data.

Clean data off your lock screen app, uninstall it, and then reboot your device to escape safe mode. When you do so, your phone or Android device will unlock.

5. Use ADB (USB required for Android 10 and lower)

• Connect your device to your PC using a USB connector.
• On your PC, open a terminal window (or command prompt).
• Type in the commands given below. Press Enter after each line:

adb shell

album/data/data/com.android.providers.settings/databases

sqlite3 settings.db

update system set value=0 where name=’lock_pattern_autolock’;

update system set value=0 where name=’lockscreen.lockedoutpermanently’;

.quit

exit

adb reboot

• After your gadget has rebooted, enter the command below:

adb shell

rm/data/framework/gesture.key

exit

adb reboot

• Your phone will reboot. After it reboots and requests a security pattern, you can utilize any pattern, and it will unlock.

Conclusion

This guide provides insight into the most common Android issue. Here, we have discussed different techniques to bypass the pattern lock on your Android phone. However, we suggest you go for a professional tool while carrying this out. Therefore, you should choose an expert tool like Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock to open the lock screen pattern.

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