The forgotten password from personal files on Xiaomi’s smartphone is a situation that thousands of users face. Unlike unlocking the screen, where a Mi Account account or a Fastboot reset helps, accessing encrypted folders (Private Folder, Second Space or MIUI archives) requires a special approach. The problem is complicated by the fact that standard password reset methods often lead to complete loss of data – photos, documents and videos can disappear forever.
In this article, we will discuss 5 working ways to restore access to personal files on Xiaomi, Redmi and other sites. POCO, including models with MIUI From simple solutions (e.g., backups) to technical firmware manipulations, each method is illustrated with screenshots and explanations. ROOT-computer or computer, so prepare the necessary tools in advance.
Recovery via Mi Account (if synchronization was enabled)
The safest way to do this is to use a linked Mi Account, which works if:
- 🔹 You have previously logged in and enabled file synchronization.
- 🔹 It's on the device. MIUI 12 or later (in older versions, the function is limited).
- 🔹 You have access to email/phone-linked.
Instructions:
- Go to account.xiaomi.com and log in.
- In the Devices section, select your smartphone.
- Click Find Device → Unlock files (the option is not available on all models).
- Confirm the action via SMS or email.
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If the option "Unlock files" is missing, try to update MIUI to the latest version - in the new firmware functionality is expanded.
Limitations of the method:
- 🚫 Does not work for files in Second Space (requires a separate password).
- 🚫 If the synchronization has been disabled, the data will not be restored.
2. Reset password through "Forgot password?" in Private Folder
If you forgot the password from the Private Folder folder (embedded MIUI storage), try the standard recovery procedure:
- Open the Files app → go to the Private Folder section.
- On the password entry screen, do you forget your password?
- Enter the data from Mi Account (email or phone).
- Confirm the reset through SMS-code.
Important: This method will only work if the folder was created through the official Files app from Xiaomi. If you used third-party programs (such as AppLock or Vault), read the section about ROOT.
What to do if the “Forgot Password” button is inactive?
3. Extract files through backup (if any)
If you’ve ever backed up through Settings → About Phone → Backup, the chances of returning files are high. Here’s how to do it:
- Connect your smartphone to your PC and copy the backup file (usually found in MIUI/backup/AllBackup).
- Install the Mi PC Suite (official software from Xiaomi) on your computer.
- In the program, select Restore from backup and specify the path to the file.
- Check the Personal Files and start the process.
Warning: Only data that was included in the backup can be recovered, and if you have manually encrypted files (e.g., 7-Zip or RAR), this method will not help.
| Type of file | Is it being restored from backup? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Photos/video | ✅ Yes. | If you were in a gallery, not a private flyer. |
| Documents (PDF, DOC) | ✅ Yes. | Restore to the Download folder |
| Notes (Mi Notes) | ✅ Yes. | Requires re-authorization in the account |
| Files from Second Space | ❌ No. | A separate password reset is required |
4 Unlocking via Fastboot (full reset)
If previous methods didn't work, the radical way is to reset through Fastboot mode, which will delete all the data on the device, but allow you to reconfigure Private Folder and Second Space.
Step-by-step:
- Turn off your smartphone. Press the Power button + Volume down to enter the Fastboot.
- Connect the device to your PC and install the Mi Flash Tool drivers.
- Download the official firmware for your model from the Xiaomi Firmware website.
- In the Mi Flash Tool, select Clean All mode and flash the device.
Download firmware for your model |Install Mi Flash Tool|Backup contacts (via Google)|Charge your phone at least 50%-->
Consequences:
- 🔴 All data will be erased, including files in the Private Folder.
- 🔴 Mi Account will remain tied, but local passwords will be reset.
- 🟢 The device will be clean, as after purchase.
5. Manual file extraction via ADB (for advanced users)
If you have ROOT-rights or you are ready to receive them, you can try to extract files manually through ADB. This method is suitable for:
- 📁 Files in Private Folder (located in the /data/system/private/).
- 📁 Data from Second Space (daddy) /data/system/space/).
- 📁 Encrypted archives (if you know the way).
Instructions:
- Activate USB Debugging in Settings → About Phone → MIUI version (tap 7 times according to version, then return to Additional → For developers).
- Connect your phone to your PC and type in the command line: adb shell su cp -r /data/system/private/ /sdcard/
- Copy files from the memory card to the computer.
Risks:
- ⚠️ No ROOT The su team won't work.
- ⚠️ Incorrect actions can cause damage to the system.
- ⚠️ Files can be encrypted – additional decryption software (e.g. AXCrypt) will be required).
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The ADB method is the only way to extract files without completely resetting them, but it requires technical skills. If you're not sure, contact the service center.
6. Alternative methods: third-party programs and service centers
If none of these methods have worked, consider the following options:
- 🔧 Xiaomi Service Center: Official centers can restore access to files if you have a check or a warranty card.
- 🔧 Data recovery software: Dr.Fone, Tenorshare 4uKey iMyFone LockWiper claims to be able to unblock the lock from the MIUI, But their effectiveness is controversial (the risk of losing data or catching a virus).
- 🔧 Cloud Storage: Check if files are automatically uploaded to Google Photos, Mi Cloud or Yandex.Disk.
Warning about fraudsters:
⚠️ The Internet often offers "xing Xiaomi password in 5 minutes" - it's 100% divorce. No program can guarantee to decrypt files without access to encryption keys. Beware of sites that require payment for "unlock code".
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
When trying to unlock files, users often make critical errors:
- Unofficial firmware: firmware via Custom ROM (such as LineageOS) can permanently block access to encrypted data.
- Interrupt the reset process: if during the Fastboot to turn off the cable, the phone will turn into a “brick”.
- Ignore backups: Many forget that MIUI automatically creates backups once a week (check the MIUI/backup folder).
Tip: If you often forget passwords, set up Biometric unlock (fingerprint or face) for Private Folder. To do this, go to Settings → Passwords and Security → Setup app lock.