Pattern Locks Are Unsafe: Secure Your Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) 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.

Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links

If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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 Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) 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 Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) 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.

Best Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) Pattern Lock Removal Tools: Remove Android Pattern Lock Without Losing Data

In the digital age, our smartphones have become an integral part of our lives. They contain a wealth of personal information, from contacts and messages to photos and sensitive financial data. But what happens when you forget your phone’s lock screen password or pattern?  It’s really irritating, right?

Yes, the locked pattern is such a problem that can’t let you access to your phone. You may worry about losing all your data or having to perform a factory reset. However, there are several pattern lock removal tools available that can help you regain access to your device without losing any of your valuable data. Two popular options are Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android) and Android Multi Tool. In this article, we will compare these two tools to help you decide which one is right for you.

Part 1: Remove Pattern lock with Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock

Note that you can unlock your android lock screen by a hard reset, but it will cost all the data on the phone. You won’t have any data on your phone after a hard reset. So you can avoid this problem with pattern lock remover tools. Now we have picked up a great android pattern lock remover named Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android) by Wondershare.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android) is a comprehensive software developed by Wondershare that specializes in unlocking Android devices. It offers a user-friendly interface and a wide range of features to help you bypass lock screens on various Android devices. With Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android), you can remove passwords, patterns, PINs, and even fingerprints from your Android device in just a few simple steps. The software supports a wide range of Android brands, including Samsung, LG, HTC, Motorola, and more. Additionally, Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android) ensures the safety of your data throughout the process, so you don’t have to worry about any data loss or privacy breaches.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android)

The Best Android Pattern Lock Remover for Your Locked Android Phones

• 5 screen lock types are available: pattern, PIN, password, fingerprints & Face ID.
• Except for screen locks, it also supports bypassing Google FRP on Samsung, Xiaomi, Redmi, Oppo, Realme, Vivo.
• Save you from ending up with a locked phone after too many pattern attempts.
• Provide specific removal solutions to promise good success rate.

Now we will look at the functionalities that are needed in order to unlock your Android pattern lock.

4,008,669 people have downloaded it

How To Unlock Android Patterns with Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android)?

• Step 1. Start Dr.Fone on your PC and then click on “Screen Unlock”. This feature will remove your password from the pattern screen and let you access your phone. After you have accessed Screen Unlock > Android, continue to select the Unlock Android Screen option.

• Step 2. Select Your Device’s Brand to Remove Lock. This tool can remove the Android lock screen without data loss for select Samsung devices, such as S5, Note 4, etc. Actually, you can also use this tool to unlock other Android phones including Huawei, Lenovo, Xiaomi, etc., the only sacrifice is that you will lose all the data after unlocking.

• Step 3. Now you have to take your Android phone to download mode. To do that, you have to follow the guidelines given below: Make sure that your phone is switched off. You will have to press and hold 3 buttons at the same time. They are – Volume down, home, and power buttons. You could go into download mode by pressing the volume up button.

• Step 4. Just after getting onto the download mode, your phone will start getting the recovery package. You will have to wait until the completion of the downloading.
• Step 5. After the downloading is complete, you will now notice that Android Pattern Lock removal process has been started automatically. Don’t worry about your data on your phone, as the pattern lock screen removal will not erase any data from your phone. After the removal process, you can access your phone as per your desire.

Part 2: Remove Pattern Lock with Android Multi Tool

Now we have another pattern lock remover named Android multi-tool. Android Multi Tool is an open-source software that provides similar functionality to Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android). It allows you to bypass lock screens on Android devices and offers additional features such as resetting Gmail accounts and wiping data on your device. It supports devices from various manufacturers, including Samsung, Sony, HTC, and more. Take a look at its features:

• It can unlock different types of lock screens such as pattern, password, PIN, face lock, etc.
• The tool can reset your set without losing data.
• It can run on PC and work on Android devices smoothly.

How to Unlock Pattern lock with Android Multi Tool?

Here are the step-by-step guidelines for unlocking a locked screen.

• Step 1. Download the latest version of the tool on your PC and run it there.
• Step 2. SConnect your Android phone to your PC via USB cable. Make sure that your Android device is connected to your PC properly. Otherwise, it will not work.
• Step 3. SAfter running the Android Multi tool on your PC, you will see onscreen instructions like different numbers for different functions. Press on a number for which action you want to perform. For unlocking patterns, there is a numbering button so you will go for that.
• Step 4. SYou will see that your phone has started rebooting after pressing a specific button. Wait until you see it starts automatically. When the phone will start, you could use it without any problem. Good thing is that this tool also does not delete data while unlocking your pattern lock.

Part 3: A Comprehensive Comparison: Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android) vs. Android Multi Tool

Well, you have come to know great things about the two pattern lock remover tools: Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock and Android Multi Tool.

Now, take a look at these tools’ comparison.

Features	Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android)	Android Multi Tool
Unlock pattern locks without deleting data	Yes	Yes
Easy to use	Yes	Technical skills required.
High-success Rate	Yes	This tool may sometimes not work.

One of the standout features of Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android) is its simplicity. The software is designed to be easy to use, even for those with little technical knowledge. It offers step-by-step instructions and clear on-screen prompts to guide you through the unlocking process. Compared to Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android), Android Multi Tool is more suitable for tech-savvy users who have experience with command-line tools and are comfortable working with complex software.

One key advantage of Android Multi Tool is its compatibility with a wide range of Android devices. However, it’s worth noting that due to its open-source nature, Android Multi Tool may not receive regular updates and bug fixes, which could potentially lead to compatibility issues with newer Android versions.

In terms of customer support, Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android) excels. It offers 24/7 customer support through email, live chat, and phone, ensuring that you receive prompt assistance whenever you encounter any issues. Android Multi Tool, being an open-source software, relies on community forums and user-generated content for support, which may not be as reliable or timely.

When it comes to pricing, both Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android) and Android Multi Tool offer free trials, allowing you to test their features before making a purchase. Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android) offers flexible pricing plans, including a one-time payment option and a yearly subscription.

Conclusion

In conclusion, forgetting the pattern lock on your Android device can be a stressful situation, but with the help of these pattern lock removal tools, you can easily regain access without losing any data. If you are looking for a user-friendly and reliable tool to unlock your Android device, Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android) is the recommended choice. Its intuitive interface, comprehensive features, and excellent customer support make it a standout option. However, if you are a tech enthusiast who is comfortable working with complex software and prefer an open-source solution, Android Multi Tool can also be a viable option. Ultimately, the choice depends on your technical expertise and personal preferences

Whether you prefer user-friendly software like Dr.Fone – Screen Unlock (Android) or advanced command-line tools like Android Multi Tools, there is a solution available for every user. Remember to always choose a reputable tool and follow the instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and successful unlocking process.

How To Fix OEM Unlock Missing on Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023)?

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Unlock is a function on Android devices. It allows you to unlock your phone bootloader. A bootloader or bootstrap loader gathers the operating system files, loads them into memory, and hands over control, essentially starting your device. Unlocking the bootloader assists you in installing custom ROMs, flashing custom kernels, and rooting your phone.

However, this freedom comes with some trade-offs. Most manufacturers will void your warranty if you unlock the bootloader, and it can also make your phone face higher risks of malware and other security threats. Additionally, it can be difficult to relock the bootloader once you unlock it.

If you encounter the OEM unlock missing on your Android phone despite wanting to unlock your bootloader, this article can help. You will learn the step-by-step guide for the different methods to fix the missing OEM unlock option. Before diving into solutions, let’s explore why this option might be unavailable in the first place.

Part 1: Why Is OEM Unlock Missing on Your Device?

Finding that OEM Unlock is missing on your Android phones can be frustrating, particularly if you plan to modify your software or install a custom ROM. But don’t worry. There are several possible explanations for this. Let’s explore some of the most common reasons:

Manufacturer Restrictions

The Missing OEM Unlock option can often be due to restrictions imposed by your device’s manufacturers. They may intentionally remove this option to safeguard device security and compatibility. It is common with carrier-locked devices. As a result, the OEM Unlock option may not show.

Bootloader Already Unlocked

In some cases, the Android OEM Unlock Missing issue arises when the bootloader has already been unlocked. Relocking the bootloader might make the option reappear. But exercise caution as this process can erase device data.

Developer Options Not Enabled

It might seem obvious, but sometimes the simplest things get overlooked. The OEM Unlock option can only be accessed from within Developer Options. If this menu isn’t enabled, you won’t see it.

Carrier-Locked Devices

The OEM Unlock Missing issue can also occur if your device is carrier-locked. Carriers often impose restrictions to prevent users from switching networks, and bootloader unlocking is one way to do that. Unfortunately, the missing OEM Unlock option is usually intentional, and unlocking your device can be more complicated.

Security Features

Enhanced security features, like Samsung’s KNOX, can sometimes conceal the OEM Unlock option. Temporarily turning off these features might show the option, but it’s crucial to be aware of the potential security implications of doing so.

Corrupted Bootloader

A corrupted bootloader can also lead to the Android OEM Unlock missing problem. The bootloader plays a role in the boot process, and if it’s damaged, it might not display the necessary options. This can be caused by software glitches, failed flashing attempts, or even hardware issues. In this scenario, you might need to consult your device’s manufacturer or a technical specialist to help repair or re-flash the bootloader.

Connectivity Issues

A poor connection between your device and computer can also prevent the OEM Unlocking from showing up. Check your cables and try using different USB ports to ensure a stable connection.

Part 2: How To Enable Missing OEM Unlock Without a Password?

Unlocking your phone’s bootloader (OEM Unlock) varies across models and brands. Some need a passcode or PIN after rebooting the phone, while others don’t. Even if your phone doesn’t require a separate password, your existing screen lock (password, PIN, pattern) will usually be needed to enable the missing OEM unlock option.

But what if you forgot that, too? Wondershare Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock can help bypass forgotten passwords and unlock your phone even if you don’t have the technical knowledge. Here’s a quick breakdown of its key features in this area:

• Success Rate

High success rate for bypassing various lock screen types, including PIN code, pattern lock, passwords, and fingerprints.

• Ease of Use

Provides a concise and intuitive interface that guides users with clear instructions and on-screen prompts.

• Comprehensive Features

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock tool can remove the Android phone lock screen without resetting your Samsung or LG device. It can also help you bypass Google Factory Reset Protection (FRP) on mainstream Android brands.

• Extensive Device Compatibility

Aside from Samsung and LG, it covers a wide range of popular Android brands like Vivo, Huawei, Xiaomi, Oppo, etc.

Regain control in minutes with Dr.Fone. First, download the app to your desktop and install it. Once it’s up and running, launch Dr.Fone and prepare to unlock your device with ease. You’ll find detailed instructions below – even if you don’t know your phone’s lock screen, Dr.Fone has you covered.

• Step 1: Select Screen Unlock from the Toolbox homepage. Then, establish a connection between your locked Android device and your computer using a USB cable.

• Step 2: Specify the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) device type for screen lock removal.

• Step 3: Select Unlock Android Screen to proceed.

• Step 4: Choose the brand of your phone from the supported brands.

Note:

The following steps will vary based on your device’s manufacturer. Please refer to the instructions on your screen to proceed into Download or Recovery mode.

• Step 5: The screen unlock process is underway. If it encounters trouble, click Try Again. Once Dr.Fone successfully unlocks your Android device, tap Done.

Now that you’ve regained access to your device thanks to Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock, you can move forward with enabling the OEM unlock missing option. Next up, we’ll guide you through the steps in several ways. Let’s start with the Developer options.

Part 3: How To Enable OEM Unlock Missing From the Developer Options?

Developer Options, a hidden menu in Android, offers advanced features like app debugging and custom ROM installation. But if the Android OEM unlock option is missing, you can’t unlock your device’s bootloader. Below is a step-by-step guide for you so the OEM unlock missing option will show in the Developer Options. Remember, this process may erase your device data, so a complete backup is essential before proceeding.

• Step 1: Open the Settings app on your Android phone.
• Step 2: Navigate to About Phone at the bottom of the list, then tap Software information.

• Step 3: Tap on the Build number repeatedly (7 times) until you see a message saying, “You are now a developer!“ or similar.
• Step 4: Go back to Settings > System and find the Developer options menu.
• Step 5: Scroll down and tap the toggle switch next to Enable OEM Unlock to turn it on.

• Step 6: A warning message explaining the risks of turning on the OEM unlock will appear. Read it carefully and tap Enable if you want to proceed.

• Step 7: Enter your PIN or password to confirm the unlock when prompted
• Step 8: Your device will reboot, and OEM Unlocking will be enabled.

Part 4: How To Fix OEM Unlock Missing by Adjusting Date and Time?

Some manufacturers intentionally delay the availability of the OEM unlock after a software update for security reasons. Changing the date to a past date before the update rolled out can trick the system into displaying the option, as it thinks the update hasn’t happened yet. It is a temporary fix, and the option will likely disappear again later when the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) device automatically syncs the correct date.

If you intend to try this method, follow these steps to enable OEM unlock missing or greyed out after an Android update:

• Step 1: Open the Settings app.
• Step 2: Go to System or General management, depending on your Android version.
• Step 3: Tap on Date and Time.
• Step 4: Turn off Automatic date and time.

• Step 5: Tap on Set date and choose the desired older date from the calendar.
• Step 6: Tap on Set time and choose the desired time from the clock.
• Step 7: Tap on Done to save the changes.
• Step 8: Go back to the Developers options and turn off the Auto update system option.

• Step 9: Go to Settings > Software update, then turn off Auto download over Wi-Fi.

This method should enable the OEM unlock missing issue. Otherwise, proceed to the next section for another solution.

Part 5: How To Fix OEM Unlock Missing by Removing SIM Card?

Certain carriers restrict bootloader unlocking on their devices to ensure compatibility and prevent unauthorized modifications. For these phones, unlocking the SIM card becomes crucial before you can toggle the OEM unlock option. Here are the steps to fix the OEM Unlock missing or greyed out using SIM card removal:

• Step 1: Use the SIM ejector tool (often included with your phone) or a small pin to push the tray out.
• Step 2: Go to Settings > General Management > Reset, then select Factory data reset. Enter your PIN or password if needed.

• Step 3: Review the warning and tap Reset to confirm.
• Step 4: Once the reset is complete, your phone will restart. Connect to Wi-Fi when prompted.
• Step 5: Skip any prompts to log in to your Google or email account. Then, repeat the process to open the Developer Options in the previous sections.

Conclusion

Having the OEM Unlock missing or greyed out can leave Android users feeling locked out of customization possibilities. Fortunately, this article has outlined helpful solutions like enabling the Android OEM Unlock missing option via the Developer Options. You can also try other methods above, like adjusting date and time settings or even a sim card removal trick. For those facing forgotten lock screens, we’ve offered guidance on bypassing them using the Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock tool to access the necessary phone settings.

While these methods provide a solid foundation, it’s always wise to research steps specific to your phone model. And never forget – caution is key. If things get technical, don’t hesitate to seek help from online communities or professional repair services.

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!

Also read: