Modern Xiaomi Redmi smartphones are equipped with powerful data protection systems that require a lock-in by default, which is necessary for the security of personal files, banking applications and accounts in the event of a device being stolen. However, for many users, constantly entering a pin code or graphical pattern becomes an annoying factor, especially if the gadget is used exclusively at home or entrusted to only one person.
The process of disabling protection does not require special technical knowledge or connection to the computer. Built-in tools of the MIUI shell or HyperOS allow you to manage security settings through the standard settings menu. It is important to understand that giving up a password reduces the level of protection, making data available to anyone who picks up the phone.
In this article, we will take a detailed look at the algorithm for removing all types of locks, including complex digital codes and biometrics, and we will also look at the possible problems that you may encounter when trying to deactivate the protection, and offer solutions for various smartphone use cases.
Preparation for changes in safety parameters
Before you start changing your system settings, you need to make sure you have full access to the device. If the phone is locked and you don't remember the current password, the standard method through the settings menu won't work - in which case a complete data reset will be required, which will lead to loss of information.
Make sure the battery is at least 20-30% battery power. Although the process of changing settings is not energy intensive, suddenly turning off the device while working with system safety parameters can lead to software errors or a cyclical reboot.
⚠️ Warning: Disabling the screen password makes the contents of instant messengers, gallery and email clients available to anyone who unlocks a smartphone. It is recommended to leave at least biometric protection (print or face) if you are worried about privacy.
To perform the operation, you will need a stable Internet connection in some cases, since Xiaomi’s security system may request confirmation of your Mi Account or Google account.
Standard method of disconnection through settings
The main and most secure way to remove a password request is in the main configuration menu, which is suitable for most Redmi Note, Redmi and Poco models running current firmware versions.
First, open the Settings app and find the section responsible for protecting. MIUI, It can be called Passwords and Security or just Screen Lock. → Passwords and security → Confidentiality.
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If you often forget a complex password, write the current code to a secure location before disabling it or use a password manager to avoid losing access to backup recovery codes.
Inside the menu, select "Screen Lock" or "Screen Lock Type" and ask the system to enter your current password, pattern lock or fingerprint to verify your rights, and after successful authorization, a list of available protection methods will open.
To opt out of data entry, choose No or No. If you don't have one, select Swipe, which is functionally equivalent to no password, but retains visual animation of the screen being turned on.
- 🔒 pattern lock: Connecting dots in a particular order, often forgotten by users due to blurred screen traces.
- 🔢 PIN-code: A digital password of 4 or more digits that is harder to pick up, but easier to forget than a fingerprint.
- 👆 Password: alphanumeric combination that provides the maximum level of cryptographic data protection.
- 👤 Facial Recognition: A biometric method that can be disabled separately in security settings without removing the primary password.
Biometric data and fingerprint management
Often users want to remove a fingerprint or a facial scanner, leaving a digital code, or vice versa, and these parameters are managed in the same section, but require special attention to detail, since biometrics are closely related to payment systems.
To remove the fingerprint, go to the Passwords and Security menu. → Fingerprints. Here you'll see a list of registered fingers. When you click on a specific fingerprint, you can select the "Delete" option. To turn off the feature completely, you need to delete all saved templates.
The same goes for face data, and there's a clean button on the Add Face Data or Face Data Management menu, and it's worth noting that some Redmi models with an IR camera have faster and safer face unlocking than budget models with software recognition.
If you plan to use your phone for payments via NFC (Google Pay, Mi Pay), keep in mind that after the first reboot of the device, the biometrics stop working to confirm transactions.
☑️ Checking before removal of biometrics
Specifics of working with Mi and Google account
Xiaomi's ecosystem has its own security features, and when you try to disable your screen password, you may need a password from Mi Account, which is an Anti-theft security mechanism that prevents a stolen phone from unlocking even after you reset.
If the phone is linked to a Google account, a full Hard Reset will also require login and password input from that account, regardless of screen settings, but an important aspect of the overall security of the device.
| Type of protection | Where it's off. | Effects of disconnection |
|---|---|---|
| Screen locking | Settings → Lock screen | Instant access to the desktop |
| Second space | Settings → Second Space | Deletion of the hidden profile and all its data |
| Application protection | Settings → Applications → Protection | Opening applications (WhatsApp, Gallery) without password |
| Hidden files | Conductor → Hidden files | Access to hidden photos and videos without authentication |
It is important to distinguish between the screen unlock password and the encryption password. On modern versions of Android, data is encrypted with a key that is often tied to the key. PIN-By removing the code, you potentially change the encryption key storage algorithm, although it remains invisible to the average user.
Solving problems: if the password is not turned off
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where the system does not allow to remove the password or the “Disable” button is inactive, often due to the security policies of corporate applications or the settings of the device administrator.
Check if remote management applications (e.g. TeamViewer, AnyDesk) or corporate email clients (Microsoft Exchange) are installed on the phone, and they can impose a mandatory lock policy, and removing such applications usually returns the ability to change settings.
⚠️ Warning: If a phone is hand-built and someone else's Mi or Google account is on it, you won't be able to fully manage security, which requires a complete cleanup and login to your account.
Also, the reason may be the enabled function “Smart unlock” through the Mi Band or other wearable devices. As long as the trusted device is connected, the screen may not request a password, creating the illusion that it is disabled, but when you turn off the bracelet, the lock will return.
Why does the system require a password after restarting?
Alternative methods and smart unlocking
If you think it's too risky to completely disable your password, but you don't want to type it every time, consider Smart Lock, which allows you to keep your phone unlocked under certain conditions.
You can find this feature by using the Settings → Passwords & Security → Privacy → Smart Lock. You can set the unlock by location (for example, “Home”), when you connect to a Bluetooth device (earphones, car) or when you find a body in your hand.
Using a Smart Lock is a trade-off between convenience and security: The phone will remain password-protected in public spaces, but will open instantly in a familiar environment, especially for owners of Mi Band or Amazfit smartwatches.
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Smart Lock is the best compromise: it eliminates the need to enter a password at home or in the car, but retains protection in crowded places.