How to disable security on Xiaomi Redmi: all methods with explanations

Xiaomi Redmi smartphones are known for their balance of price and functionality, but a strict security system often becomes an obstacle for users. MIUI Protection, binding to Mi Account, blocked bootloader and even standard PIN-Code can limit the capabilities of a device, from installing custom firmware to resetting passwords after buying a used phone, and in this article, we will discuss legitimate and technically sound ways to disable protection, taking into account the risks and consequences of each method.

It is important to understand that disabling security does not always amount to “hacking.” For example, unlocking a bootloader through the official Mi Unlock Tool is a manufacturer-defined procedure, and bypassing an account verification after a reset (FRP) may require proof of ownership of the device. We will not consider methods that violate Xiaomi’s law or terms of use, but will show how to work within the rules to avoid completely blocking the IMEI or account.

This article is relevant for Redmi Note 12/13, Redmi 10/11, POCO X5 and other devices on MIUI 14/15 (Android 13/14). If your smartphone is older than 2020, some methods may not work – check the firmware version in Settings → About phone.

Types of protection on Xiaomi Redmi: what can and can not be turned off

Xiaomi’s security system is layered, and before we start, let’s look at the level of protection you’ve encountered:

• 🔒 Screen lock (PIN, The topmost layer is the pattern lock, the fingerprint, and you can reset it through Mi Account or Fastboot, but that requires proof of ownership.
• 🔐 Mi Account (linked to Xiaomi account) – required to unlock the bootloader and some functions. FRP (Factory Reset Protection).
• 🛡️ Blocked bootloader - prevents the installation of unofficial firmware, unlockable only through the Mi Unlock Tool with a wait of 7-15 days.
• 📱 MIUI Protection – built-in antivirus system that blocks suspicious activities (for example, changing system files without root rights).
• 🔄 FRP (Factory Reset Protection – activated after resetting if the device was linked to Mi Account. requires the username/password of the previous owner.

Not all protections can be disabled by yourself, for example, bypassing FRP without previous owner data is technically possible, but violates Xiaomi’s user agreement and may result in blocking IMEI. We will focus on legal methods that will not entail sanctions from the manufacturer.

⚠️ Attention: Disconnection MIUI Protection or unlocking the bootloader will void the Xiaomi warranty. If the device is warranty, first clarify the conditions in the service center - some operations (for example, a Fastboot reset) can be considered a "non-warranty case".

2. How to disable screen lock (PIN, pattern lock, password)

If you forgot your password or bought a used Redmi with a locked screen, there are several ways to unlock without losing data (if the device was tied to your Mi Account).

Method 1: Unlocking with Mi Account (official method)

The safest option is if your phone is linked to your account:

1. On the lock screen, click Forgot your password.
2. Select Log in via Mi Account and enter the login/password.
3. Confirm unlocking via SMS or email (if two-factor authentication is enabled).
4. Set a new PIN or graphical key.

Method 2: Fastboot reset (if Mi Account is not tied)

If you don't have an account attached or you don't remember the data, you'll have to reset the device to factory settings, which will delete all the data, but unlock the screen:

fastboot oem unlock


fastboot flashing unlock

Once the commands are executed, the phone will restart in Restore mode, where you can select Wipe Data.This method only works if the FRP is not activated (i.e. the device was not tied to the Mi Account after the last reset).

⚠️ Note: If the phone is on FRP, After reset via Fastboot, you will need to enter the data of the previous Mi Account. Without them, the device will become a “brick” – it can only be unlocked through the service center with the confirmation of purchase.

3. Unlock bootloader on Xiaomi Redmi

A blocked bootloader is the main obstacle to installing custom firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience) or obtaining root rights. Officially, it can be unlocked through the Mi Unlock Tool, but the process requires patience:

Step-by-step:

1. Link the device to your Mi Account: 📱 Go to Settings. → Xiaomi account and log in. 🔗 Turn on sync and confirm. email/phone.
2. Activate debugging on USB and OEM-unlock: 🔧 Go to Settings. → The phone. → Version. MIUI and tap 7 times to activate Developer Mode. 🔓 Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers and include: Debugging by USB Unlocking OEM (It may be called a factory unlock)
3. Install Mi Unlock Tool on PC: 💻 Download the tool from the official website (registration is required). 🔌 Connect your phone in Fastboot mode (clip the power supply) + Loudness down when the device is off).

Run the unlock:

• 🔑 In Mi Unlock Tool, sign in with the same Mi Account as on your phone.
• 🕒 Wait 7-15 days (depending on the model) and the program will show the countdown timer.
• 📱 After the expiration date, press Unlock – the bootloader will be unlocked.

Disable MIUI Protection (Antivirus and Application Control)

MIUI Protection is an integrated antivirus and access control system that blocks:

• 🚫 Installation APK source.
• 🔧 Changing system files without root.
• 📱 Running applications with suspicious permissions (such as Wi-Fi scanners).

If you need to install modified software (e.g. Magisk for root), you will have to unlock the bootloader first (see Section 3). MIUI Protection will block any attempts to modify system partitions.

FRP (Factory Reset Protection) bypass after discharge

FRP is a security mechanism that activates after resetting if the device was tied to the Mi Account. If you bought a used Redmi and the previous owner did not untie the account, the phone will require you to enter its username / password. The only legal way to bypass FRP is to provide proof of purchase to the Xiaomi service center.

However, there are informal methods that work on some firmware (but may stop working after an update):

The method for MIUI 14 (Android 13)

1. On the welcome screen, select a language and connect to Wi-Fi.
2. Click on the Additional settings (at the bottom of the screen).
3. Select Special Options → TalkBack and turn it on.
4. Hold your finger on the screen to activate TalkBack, then swipe two fingers down to open the notification bar.
5. Click on Settings (cogs) and go to Applications → Application Management.
6. Find Google Play Services, click Storage → Clear Data.
7. Restart the device – the FRP will be reset.

⚠️ Note: This method does not work on all models and can lead to soft-brick (cyclic reboot).If the phone does not turn on after manipulation, you will need firmware through Fastboot with complete loss of data.

For Android 12 and older models (like the Redmi Note 10), using the FRP Bypass APK sometimes helps, but it requires PC access and debugging over USB. For detailed instructions for a particular model, look at the XDA Developers or 4PDA forums.

6. Disabling Mi Account Checkup When Resetting

If you plan to sell or transfer your Redmi, you need to unplug the Mi Account, otherwise the new owner will not be able to use the device.

1. Delete your Xiaomi account: 📱 Go to Settings. → Xiaomi account → Delete the account. 🔑 Enter the password and confirm the deletion through SMS/email.
2. Perform a reset settings: 🔄 Go to Settings. → Additionally. → Recovery and discharge → Resetting settings. 🗑️ Choose Delete all data and confirm.

Check for the lack of FRP:

• 🔍 After reset, go through the initial setup. If the phone doesn't require Mi Account input, it's done right.

If you forgot to delete your account before reset, you can only restore access through:

• 📧 Entering the username / password from Mi Account (if you remember).
• 📄 Contacting the service center with a check for purchase (for proof of ownership).

💡

Never sell Xiaomi Redmi without detachment Mi Account – the new owner will not be able to use the phone, and you risk losing access to your data if the buyer changes the password of the account.

7. Risks and consequences of a security shutdown

Any manipulation of Xiaomi's security system has a downside, and this is what you'll find when you turn off certain features:

If you turn off the protection for installing custom firmware, consider:

• 📱 Xiaomi may block your Mi Account for “suspicious activity” (for example, if you frequently unlock downloaders on different devices).
• 🔋 Some custom firmware is poorly optimized for Redmi, resulting in overheating or rapid battery discharge.
• 📶 Features like VoLTE or Wi-Fi Calling may stop working.

8.Alternative ways to improve security without turning off protection

If your goal is not to circumvent restrictions, but simply to make your phone more convenient, consider these options:

• 🔐 Use Smart Lock: Set up automatic unlock in trusted locations (such as home) through Settings → Security → Smart Lock.
• 📱 Configure the second space: in MIUI There is a function "Second Space" (Settings) → Special facilities → Second space, which allows you to create an isolated profile with separate applications and security settings.
• 🔄 Turn off unnecessary checks: In Settings → Privacy → Special access can restrict applications' access to contacts, location, and other data.

If you need root rights for a particular application (like AdAway or Greenify), consider alternatives:

• 🛡️ Island (for application isolation) – works without root.
• 🚀 Shizuku – allows some applications to obtain extended rights through the ADB.

adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.browser

It does not require root and does not violate the warranty.-->

FAQ: Frequent security questions Xiaomi Redmi