Pattern Locks Are Unsafe Secure Your Samsung Galaxy M14 5G Phone Now with These Tips

Pattern Locks Are Unsafe Secure Your Samsung Galaxy M14 5G Phone Now with These Tips

Peter Lv12

Pattern Locks Are Unsafe: Secure Your Samsung Galaxy M14 5G 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.

creating more secure pattern locks

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

common pattern locks

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.

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Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android)

Remove the Hard Pattern Lock on Your Samsung Galaxy M14 5G 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.

drfone app

Step 1: Click Android under Toolbox > Screen Unlock.

drfone android screen unlock

Step 2: Click Unlock Android Screen.

drfone screen unlock android

Step 3: Select your device manufacturer.

drfone screen unlock manufacturer selection

Step 4: Prepare your device to unlock the screen.

wipe partition cache instructions

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

screen unlock successful

All data on the Samsung Galaxy M14 5G 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 Samsung Galaxy M14 5G 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.

android emergency call screen

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.

android emergency screen

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.

android tap to add emergency contacts

  • 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.

android 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.

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:

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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.

dr.fone home

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

dr.fone screen unlock home

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

unlock android or google frp lock

  • Step 4: Select the brand of your device.

device selection screen

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

screen unlock options

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

confirmation 00000 screen

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

download mode instructions

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

screen unlock success

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.

How to Reset a Samsung Galaxy M14 5G 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 M14 5G phone that is locked, or how to get into a locked Samsung Galaxy M14 5G 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 M14 5G Phone that is locked?

Before you go to reset your locked Samsung Galaxy M14 5G 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 M14 5G phone typically involves performing a factory reset. The process erases all data and settings on the Samsung Galaxy M14 5G 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 M14 5G , 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 M14 5G Phone That is Locked With Google Find My Device?

Resetting a locked Samsung Galaxy M14 5G 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 M14 5G phone.

Step 2: Upon successful login, a list of devices linked to your Google account will be displayed. Locate your locked Samsung Galaxy M14 5G 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.

tap on erase device

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 M14 5G phone that is locked without a password?

In order to reset your Samsung Galaxy M14 5G 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 M14 5G phone that is locked, you can install the Dr.Fone application on your Windows PC or Mac first.

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Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android)

The Best Unlock Tool to Reset a Samsung Galaxy M14 5G 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 M14 5G 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.

drfone home

Step 2: Connect Device

Now, you need to connect your Samsung Galaxy M14 5G 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.

drfone android ios unlock

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 M14 5G .” The program then will start the process for the lock screen removal.

drfone advanced unlock 1

Step 4: Unlock Screen

Go along with the instructions on the screen and remove all the settings of the Samsung Galaxy M14 5G device. Within a short while, the screen will be unlocked.

unlock motorola phone successfully

After the entire process is completed, you can easily access your Samsung Galaxy M14 5G 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 M14 5G 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 M14 5G 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 M14 5G 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 M14 5G device logo shows up on the screen.

reset a motorola phone that is locked 1

reset a motorola phone that is locked 2

Step 3: Enter Recovery Mode

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

reset a motorola phone that is locked 3

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.

reset a motorola phone that is locked 4

Step 5: Reboot Now

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

reset a motorola phone that is locked 5

After you have successfully reset your Samsung Galaxy M14 5G 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 M14 5G phone with Gmail ID and password

It is imperative to understand that unlocking your Samsung Galaxy M14 5G 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 M14 5G 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 M14 5G 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 M14 5G. This way, you can sneak back into the system once again.

reset a motorola phone that is locked 6

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.”

reset a motorola phone that is locked 7

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 M14 5G 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 M14 5G 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.


Also read:

  • Title: Pattern Locks Are Unsafe Secure Your Samsung Galaxy M14 5G Phone Now with These Tips
  • Author: Peter
  • Created at : 2024-04-30 19:07:22
  • Updated at : 2024-05-01 19:07:22
  • Link: https://android-unlock.techidaily.com/pattern-locks-are-unsafe-secure-your-samsung-galaxy-m14-5g-phone-now-with-these-tips-by-drfone-android/
  • License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.
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Pattern Locks Are Unsafe Secure Your Samsung Galaxy M14 5G Phone Now with These Tips