Pattern Locks Are Unsafe: Secure Your Samsung Galaxy S23+ 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 Samsung Galaxy S23+ 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 Samsung Galaxy S23+ 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 Reset a Samsung Galaxy S23+ Phone that is Locked?

We all have been there when put a tough to crack the lock on the smartphone and forget the password all along. Such circumstances can be tedious at times, but there is a way around it. If you have spent countless hours on how to reset a Samsung Galaxy S23+ phone that is locked, or how to get into a locked Samsung Galaxy S23+ phone quickly with or without Factory Reset. This is the right article for you. Here we will describe all the different ways in which you can reset your phone with the convenience of software to even reset it manually. So, without making further due, let’s jump right into it.

Part 1: What should I be aware of before resetting a Samsung Galaxy S23+ Phone that is locked?

Before you go to reset your locked Samsung Galaxy S23+ phone, it’s crucial to learn about a few key factors. These factors will enable you to make a well-informed choice and help avoid potential complications during the factory reset process.

1. Data Loss

Resetting your locked Samsung Galaxy S23+ phone typically involves performing a factory reset. The process erases all data and settings on the Samsung Galaxy S23+ device. This includes your files, apps, contacts, and other information stored on the phone. You can easily restore these data if you have backed up data before. It’s crucial to back up essential data regularly to avoid data loss.

2. Factory Reset Protection (FRP)

Samsung Galaxy S23+ , like many other Android manufacturers, implements Factory Reset Protection. It acts as a preemptive safeguard against unauthorized access to a device after a reset. If your phone is linked to a Google account, you will need to input the accurate login credentials after a reset.

Failing to do so may lead to your device being locked. Understanding how to bypass or recover from FRP lock is essential if you find yourself in this situation.

Part 2: How to Reset a Samsung Galaxy S23+ Phone That is Locked With Google Find My Device?

Resetting a locked Samsung Galaxy S23+ phone through Google Find My Device presents a convenient solution. It, however, needs you to have activated this functionality on your device. To initiate the reset, please adhere to the following steps:

Step 1: Open a web browser on any computer or alternative device and navigate to the Google Find My Device website. Sign in with the same Google account associated with your locked Samsung Galaxy S23+ phone.

Step 2: Upon successful login, a list of devices linked to your Google account will be displayed. Locate your locked Samsung Galaxy S23+ phone from the list and select it. Select the “Erase Device” option from the left-hand panel, and it will trigger a remote factory reset for your locked phone.

Step 3: A confirmation dialog will appear, prompting you to input your Google account password. Finally, click the “Erase” button to initiate the factory reset process.

Part 3: How to reset a Samsung Galaxy S23+ phone that is locked without a password?

In order to reset your Samsung Galaxy S23+ phone without a password, you need to have a single software known as Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android) . It’s a powerful and versatile software tool designed to help you unlock your devices under various circumstances. Whether you’ve forgotten your device’s password, PIN, pattern, or fingerprint, or you’re dealing with a locked device due to a broken screen, Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android) can assist you. In order to reset phone correctly, go through the steps given below:

Before resetting your Samsung Galaxy S23+ phone that is locked, you can install the Dr.Fone application on your Windows PC or Mac first.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android)

The Best Unlock Tool to Reset a Samsung Galaxy S23+ Phone That Is Locked Without a Password!

• Remove all Android screen locks (PIN/pattern/fingerprints/face ID) in minutes.
• Work for forgotten passwords, second-hand Samsung Galaxy S23+ devices, etc.
• 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

Step 1: Launch the Program

First of all, launch the Dr.Fone Screen Unlock on your computer, and you will be greeted with a welcome screen like this. Now, head over to the “Screen Unlock” section.

Step 2: Connect Device

Now, you need to connect your Samsung Galaxy S23+ phone to the computer via a USB cable and select “Android” > “Unlock Android Screen.” This particular step is an application for all the Android phones out there.

Step 3: Choose Device Model

Here you need to select the exact brand of your phone. In your case, you can just tap “Samsung Galaxy S23+ .” The program then will start the process for the lock screen removal.

Step 4: Unlock Screen

Go along with the instructions on the screen and remove all the settings of the Samsung Galaxy S23+ device. Within a short while, the screen will be unlocked.

After the entire process is completed, you can easily access your Samsung Galaxy S23+ Phone without the need to enter your password. All the restrictions that were set properly to unlock will be removed so that you can use your phone as intended.

Part 4: How to reset a Samsung Galaxy S23+ phone that is locked with a hard reset

Disclaimer: Only perform this step if you are well accustomed to the Android recovery system or at least know your way around your Samsung Galaxy S23+ phone.

That being said, you should only resort to using a hard reset if you don’t have any important data on your phone. Further including, resetting your phone with the hard reset option will wipe out any data that’s been stored in it. Now, proceed forward will all the steps are given below:

Step 1: Charge Device

Charge your Samsung Galaxy S23+ Phone so that it has a batter of at least 30% or higher. Then turn off the phone.

Step 2: Press keys

Now, you need to press the Volume Down + Power button simultaneously until the Samsung Galaxy S23+ device logo shows up on the screen.

Step 3: Enter Recovery Mode

Now, press the Volume Down button to navigate to the Recovery Mode.

Step 4: Factory Reset

Use the buttons to navigate to the “Wipe data/factory reset” option and select it by pressing the Power button. Now, choose the option ”Factory data Reset” and wait for a few seconds till it is completed.

Step 5: Reboot Now

Again use the Volume buttons and select the “Reboot system now.”

After you have successfully reset your Samsung Galaxy S23+ phone, it would take a few minutes to boot up. Once that is done, you are left with a clean slate, just like a completely new smartphone.

Part 5: Unlock locked Samsung Galaxy S23+ phone with Gmail ID and password

It is imperative to understand that unlocking your Samsung Galaxy S23+ Phone using a Gmail ID and password should be your last resort and especially if you are using an older version of Android. Among all the tricks of how to reset a Samsung Galaxy S23+ phone that is locked, it only works if you are running around version 4.4 KitKat or older than that. Neither less to say, in order for the step to work properly, you need your Gmail account to be properly configured with the Samsung Galaxy S23+ device.

Step 1: Attempt Passwords

At first, you need to make five attempts to unlock your device. Whether you have used a PIN or Pattern lock, Android will always give you five attempts to get the password right. Once you get that, it will trigger the “Forget Password/Pattern” option on Your Samsung Galaxy S23+. This way, you can sneak back into the system once again.

Step 2: Enter Credentials

Once you hit the option, you will be redirected to another page, where you need to enter your Gmail id and password. Make sure that you get the information right, and select “Sign in.”

Once you get everything right, this will bypass any password or pattern you once had put on your Phone. Just remember, you need to have a stable internet connection in order for the step to work seamlessly.

Bonus Tip: Are There Preventive Measures To Avoid Future Lockouts?

Want to prevent future lockouts and ensure a smoother smartphone experience? Consider implementing the following preventive measures:

1. Setting Up Alternative Lock Methods

One way to avoid getting locked out of your Samsung Galaxy S23+ phone is to set up alternative lock methods. In addition to PINs, passwords, and patterns, you can use biometric methods. These include fingerprint recognition or facial recognition if your device supports them. Such options provide convenient and secure ways to unlock your phone.

2. Regularly Backing Up Your Data

Regular data backups are crucial to safeguarding your essential files and information. Utilize cloud backup services or local backup solutions to routinely save your data. In case of a lockout or a factory reset, you can quickly restore your data without loss.

3. Using Secure and Memorable Passwords

When setting up lock methods, opt for strong, unique, and memorable passwords. Avoid using easily guessable information like birthdays or simple patterns. Strong passwords can enhance security while minimizing the chances of forgetting your credentials.

Conclusion

There is no point in arguing that looking through how to reset a Samsung Galaxy S23+ phone that is locked after you have forgotten the password is indeed a hectic process. But, there is a way around it too. By going through all the steps mentioned above, you can always get an unlocked phone with ease.

To our recommendation, we would suggest going through Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android) so that you can make the entire process as seamless as possible. It is by far the easiest and most convenient process to work around. Neither less to say, there are a ton of video tutorials that can assist you in case you get stuck in the middle of the process.

A Perfect Guide To Remove or Disable Google Smart Lock On Samsung Galaxy S23+

Google services are pivotal in enhancing user experience and securing personal data. Among these services, Google Smart Lock stands out for its ingenious features. These are integrated into Android devices, simplifying access and bolstering security. However, there are instances where users seek to disable or remove Google Smart Lock.

This article goes through the details of Google Smart Lock and its significance. It offers a solution to address unexpected screen lock scenarios on Android devices.

Part 1. Understanding Google Smart Lock and How It Works?

Want to know what is Google Smart Lock? Google Smart Lock serves as a multi-purpose tool within the Google ecosystem. It is designed to streamline security measures and password management access across platforms. At its core, Google Smart Lock operates as a feature that manages passwords. Google Smart Lock aims to enhance authentication processes. Primarily, it operates across Android devices and computers.

It offers a unified approach to security, ensuring you don’t have to remember all the passwords. Google Smart Lock securely stores and manages passwords for websites and apps. It enables users to access these services without repeatedly entering login details. When you visit a familiar website or app, Google Smart Lock fills in the login credentials. It automatically provides the login ID and password, maintaining effortless access.

Part 2. Recognizing Some Top Features of Google Smart Lock

Google Smart Lock’s password management has revolutionized how users handle and secure their login credentials. It remains a cornerstone when handling Android devices and computer systems. The following are several notable features that significantly enhance user convenience and security:

1. Password Autofill

Google Smart Lock simplifies the login process across apps and websites. It does that by automatically filling in saved credentials. This eliminates the need for users to remember and manually input passwords.

2. Cross-Platform Synchronization

It synchronizes saved passwords across multiple devices using the same Google account. This ensures smooth access to credentials on Android devices and computers.

3. Secure Storage

Passwords stored within Google Smart Lock are encrypted and securely stored in the user’s Google account. This maintains confidentiality and safeguards sensitive login information.

4. Effortless Password Generation

It allows the creation of strong and unique passwords when signing up for new accounts. That enhances overall account security and allows users to have strong passwords.

These features significantly ease the burden of password management and enhance user security. Yet, Google Smart Lock does have limitations that prompt some users to consider removing it.

Part 3. Why Is It Essential To Remove Google Smart Lock?

Despite its array of benefits, there are times when users consider removing or disabling Google Smart Lock. Described below are these limitations to better grasp why users might choose to Google Smart Lock turn off:

1. Privacy Concerns

Some users focus on privacy and feel uncomfortable with Google Smart Lock’s access to their passwords. The reason behind this is how easily anyone can access the saved password. All they need to do is access “Manage Passwords” in Google Chrome, and all their passwords will be open. This leads them to opt for more private password management options.

2. Glitches and Technical Issues

Technical glitches in the functioning of Google Smart Lock can be frustrating. This is especially prominent when managing passwords with similar usernames across different websites. The same can happen when using similar passwords for different websites or apps. Users experiencing such issues can seek to remove it to restore regular operations.

3. No Updates

You should be aware that Google Smart Lock for Passwords has been deprecated. This indicates it no longer receives updates or support from Google. Developers are advised to opt for Google’s One Tap Sign-in feature as an alternative by Google. It provides a more efficient and secure method for signing in to apps and websites.

4. Preference for Third-Party Tools

Certain users might have a preference for specialized third-party password management tools. They can go for solutions that offer a wider array of features. Many users might want to find options better aligned with their specific needs. This prompts them to disable Google Smart Lock.

Part 4. Understanding Some Effective Ways To Disable or Remove Google Smart Lock

If you want to disable Google Smart Lock on your devices, it is a relatively easy thing to do. Several ways are available to disable or remove Google Smart Lock from devices. These approaches cater to users’ diverse needs and preferences. Here is how to turn off Google Smart Lock:

Way 1. Disabling Google Smart Lock on Your Android

To deactivate Google Smart Lock on your Android device, you can use Chrome. Google Chrome is the main hub for storing all your login credentials for websites and apps. This provides the quickest way to disable Google Smart Lock. To disable Google Smart Lock from the Chrome app on your Android device, follow these steps:

• Step 1. Begin by opening the Google Chrome app on your Android device. Then, tap the “three dots” icon from the top right corner and press “Settings.”

• Step 2. Within the Settings, choose “Passwords,” and on the following screen, look for the “Save passwords” and “Auto Sign-in” options. Toggle off both options to disable the Google Smart Lock feature from your Android.

Way 2. Removing Google Smart Lock From Android Settings

Google Smart Lock enables users to keep their phones unlocked under specific, pre-approved, and secure conditions. This simplifies device usage by eliminating the need to input passwords or security codes. The basic working of this aspect of Google Smart Lock, now known as “Extend Unlock,” is divided into three parts.

The first one is on-body detection, which keeps the Samsung Galaxy S23+ device unlocked when it’s carried or held by the user. The other two are “Trusted Places” and “Trusted Devices.” Users can set specific locations, like home or work, as “Trusted Places.” When the Samsung Galaxy S23+ device is within these locations, it remains unlocked and accessible. Smart Lock integrates biometric authentication methods to unlock devices.

As helpful as it is in managing access to your Android device, privacy concerns can cause users to disable this lock. The following are the steps you can take to disable Google Smart Lock/Extend Unlock via Android settings:

• Step 1. Access “Settings” on your Android device and scroll down to tap “Passwords & security.” Here, press the option labeled as “Privacy.”

• Step 2. On the following screen, head to the “Trust agents” option and toggle off the “Smart Lock (Google)” option to disable the feature on your device.

Way 3. Disabling Google Smart Lock From Chrome

While you can manage this feature on Android devices, it is also available on Google Chrome on your computer. To disable Google Smart Lock from Google Chrome on your computer or laptop, you can follow these steps:

• Step 1. On your computer, access Google Chrome and click the “three dots” near the top right corner. From the context menu, choose “Settings” and tap “Autofill and passwords” from the left side.

• Step 2. Now, click “Google Password Manager” on the ensuing window, and choose “Settings” from the left side. Toggle off “Offer to save passwords” and “Sign in automatically” to disable Google Smart Lock.

Part 5. Forgot Google Smart Lock From Android Device? Recover Using Wondershare Dr.Fone

Disabling the Google Smart Lock can have a side effect, which is the danger of forgetting an important password. One of these important passwords is the screen lock on your Android device. These scenarios could involve forgetting the Samsung Galaxy S23+ device’s PIN, pattern, or password. This could be essential for unlocking the phone or accessing its functionalities. It can lead to being locked out of the Samsung Galaxy S23+ device, hindering normal operations.

In such instances, regaining access becomes crucial. Wondershare Dr.Fone offers a robust solution in these cases. This software specializes in unlocking Android devices when users forget their device passcodes. It offers a swift solution to eliminate Android lock screens within 5 minutes. If you own a Samsung or LG device, you can unlock it without data loss.

Notable Features of Wondershare Dr.Fone

1. This tool bypasses the Android FRP lock without necessitating a PIN or Google account.
2. It broadens its ability to unlock well-known Android brands like Samsung, Huawei, and LG.
3. Additionally, its intuitive interface guarantees that no technical know-how is required.

Step-by-Step Guide To Unlock Android Smartphone via Wondershare Dr.Fone

Dr.Fone makes the process of unlocking an Android device a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to recover an Android device using Wondershare Dr.Fone:

• Step 1. Unlocking an Android Device Using Wondershare Dr.Fone

To begin, install the most recent edition of Wondershare Dr.Fone and connect your Android device using a USB cable. Access the “Toolbox” menu and locate the “Screen Unlock” tool upon successful connection. Once opened, choose the “Android” option when prompted. Next, select “Unlock Android Screen” from the available options.

• Step 2. Device Brand Selection and Screen Unlock Initiation

Select your device brand and “100% Remove Screen Lock.” Selecting the Samsung Galaxy S23+ device brand initiates access to the designated mode. It will trigger Dr.Fone to commence unlocking the Android screen. Note that entering specific modes varies depending on the Samsung Galaxy S23+ device brand. Upon successfully unlocking your Android device screen, tap “Done.”

Tips: Forget your device password and can’t get access to it? No worries as Dr.Fone is here to help you. Download it and start a seamless unlock experience!

Conclusion

This comprehensive guide describes the significance of Google Smart Lock. It explains its features and various methods to disable it from Android devices and Chrome. Exploring scenarios of forgotten passcodes highlighted the critical need for a reliable solution. Wondershare Dr.Fone emerges as a savior in such situations. It offers a secure means to regain access when locked out of your device.

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