How to completely disable the fingerprint sensor on Xiaomi Redmi 8: instructions with pictures and solutions to problems

The fingerprint sensor on Xiaomi Redmi 8 is a convenient feature for quick unlocking, but sometimes it starts to malfunction: it does not recognize fingerprints, slows down the system or just interferes. PIN-code, pattern lock, or even remove biometrics for security reasons. In this article, we'll look at all the possible ways to disable the scanner, from standard settings to technical methods through the use of a computer. ADB, Also consider what to do if the sensor does not turn off or errors occur.

Turning off the biometric sensor doesn’t require root rights, but in some cases (such as system failures) you may need to reset or even flash. We’ll detail each method so you can choose the right one without risking damaging your smartphone. If you’re using Redmi 8 with custom firmware (such as LineageOS or Pixel Experience), some menu items may be different — we’ll mention that too.

Before you start, make sure you have:

• 🔋 At least 30% battery charge (to avoid sudden shutdown during the procedure).
• 📱 Backup of important data (in case of resetting settings).
• 🔑 Alternative method of unlocking (PIN Password or password if the sensor is the only way to log in.

1. Standard shutdown via Android settings

The easiest and safest way is to remove all your stored fingerprints from the settings menu, which is fine if the sensor is working, but you just want to stop using it.

Open Settings → Passwords and security → Fingerprint. Here you will see a list of saved fingerprints.

1. Click on any print on the list.
2. In the window that opens, select “Delete”.
3. Confirm the action by entering PIN-code.
4. Repeat for all the saved prints.

Once all fingerprints are removed, the sensor will no longer be used to unlock, but will remain physically active (e.g., it can be reconfigured).If you need to fully deactivate the scanner at the system level, move on to the next method.

⚠️ Note: If you delete all prints but do not install an alternative method of unlocking (PIN/password/pattern lock, smartphone may lock! make sure you have a backup login method.

2. Disconnect the sensor through the developer mode

If standard fingerprint removal doesn't work (for example, the sensor still tries to scan the finger when unlocked), you can try turning it off via developer mode, which does not remove the fingerprints, but completely deactivates the hardware module of the scanner at the system level.

First, activate the developer mode:

1. Go to Settings. → The phone.
2. Find the MIUI version and click on it 7 times in a row.
3. Enter. PIN-code, if required.
4. Return to the main settings menu and a new section for developers will appear.

Now turn off the sensor:

1. Go to Settings. → For developers.
2. Scroll down and find the option to turn off the fingerprint sensor (or similar, depending on the version of MIUI).
3. Activate the switch and restart the smartphone.

If you don't have one, try an alternative route: Settings → Developer → Hardware Acceleration → Disable biometric sensors. Some firmware may have a different name or no name for this item.

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If there is no option to turn off the sensor in developer mode, try updating MIUI to the latest version – new builds often add additional settings.

3. Reset security settings (without data loss)

If the fingerprint sensor is not behaving properly (e.g., it constantly emits a Sensor Not Responding or Scan Error), you can reset your security settings without completely resetting your phone, which will delete all biometrics, passwords and lock settings, but will not affect apps, photos and other files.

For this:

1. Go to Settings. → Passwords and security.
2. Select Reset Security Settings (or Delete All Credentials).
3. Confirm the action by entering the current PIN-code.
4. After restarting, set up the unlock again (for example, set the PIN).

This method helps in 80% of cases where the sensor is bugged due to software errors, and if the problem persists, the hardware module itself may have malfunctioned.

Disconnect the sensor via ADB (for power users)

If standard methods don’t work, you can disable the sensor using Android Debug Bridge (ADB), a method that is suitable for users who are willing to work with the command line, and the advantage of the method is that it allows you to completely deactivate the hardware module, even if it is locked at the MIUI level.

First, prepare your computer:

• 💻 Install. ADB and Fastboot Tools.
• 🔌 Turn on Debugging. USB on a smartphone (Settings) → The phone. → Version. MIUI → 7 taps → For developers → Debugging by USB).
• 🔗 Connect Redmi 8 to your PC via USB-cable (original!).

Now run commands in the terminal (command line):

adb devices

(A device should appear. If not, check the drivers.)

adb shell


pm disable-user --user 0 com.android.biometrics.fingerprint

Once done, the fingerprint sensor will be turned off at the system level. To bring it back, use the command:

pm enable com.android.biometrics.fingerprint

⚠️ Attention: Misuse of the right ADB It can cause a malfunction of your smartphone. Don't turn off system components unless you're sure they're there! --user 0 com.miui.securitycenter will cause errors in the work of the security center.

5.What to do if the sensor does not turn off?

If none of the methods worked, the problem may be:

• 🔄 System failure. MIUI — Try updating the firmware to the latest version or resetting to factory settings.
• 🛠️ Hardware malfunction - the sensor may fail (for example, after falling or getting moisture), in this case, only replacing the module will help.
• 🔒 Custom firmware -- some unofficial builds block the biometrics from turning off. Try reflashing your smartphone to the official one. MIUI.
• 📱 Security Policy – on some enterprise devices, disabling biometrics is prohibited by the administrator (for example, through Android Enterprise).

If the sensor is physically broken (it doesn't respond to touch, it emits an "Equipment Error" error), it can only be disabled hardwarely - disconnecting the plume from the motherboard. This requires dismantling the smartphone and soldering skills, so you better contact the service center.

Before visiting the service, check:

• 🔍 Is there any trace of oxidation on the sensor connector (see when disassembling).
• 🔌 Does the sensor work after restarting in Safe Mode (hold the power button) → Restarting in Safe Mode).
• 📦 Does not block the sensor protective film or cover (sometimes they put pressure on the module).

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If the fingerprint sensor stopped working after the MIUI update, try to roll back to the previous firmware version via Fastboot or Recovery modes. Downgrade instructions are available on the 4PDA or Xiaomi EU forums.

6.Alternatives to the fingerprint sensor on the Redmi 8

Once you turn off the scanner, you'll need another way to unlock. Redmi 8 has:

• 🔢 PIN-code - reliable and fast option (we recommend using at least 6 digits).
• 🔑 pattern lock – convenient, but less secure (you can see the traces on the screen).
• 👁️ Facial recognition – works through a front camera, but is less reliable than a print.
• 📱 Smart Lock – Automatically unlock in trusted places (such as at home) or when connected to a trusted device (earphones, smartwatches).

To set up an alternative method:

1. Go to Settings → Passwords and Security → Screen Lock.
2. Choose the desired type of unlock and follow the instructions.
3. For Smart Lock, go to Settings → Google → Smart Lock.

If you're worried about security, combine methods, like using a PIN to unlock and facial recognition for convenience, and you can set MIUI settings to require a PIN after the reboot, and face recognition will work normally.

7. Frequent errors and their solutions

When disabling the fingerprint sensor, users often face the following problems:

If after disconnecting the sensor, the smartphone began to slow down or discharge quickly, check:

• 🔋 Battery consumption in Settings → Battery – a process that consumes a lot of energy.
• 📊 Active applications in Settings → Annexes → Permits → Auto-start.
• 🔄 System cache - clean it through Settings → Warehouse → Clear the cache.

FAQ: Frequent questions