How to unlock Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 if you forget your graphical password: a step-by-step guide

The forgotten graphical password on the Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 is a situation that even power users face.The smartphone is locked after 5 failed input attempts, and without access to the basic features it seems that the data is lost forever. In fact, there are several official and alternative unlock methods, and not all of them require a factory reset.

In this article, we will discuss 5 working methods - from the simplest input backup PIN-the use of Fastboot code through complex manipulations and ADB. We will focus on the Mi Account method, which stores user data 80% of the time, and learn how to avoid re-blocking and what security settings should be changed after access is restored.

Important: the unlock procedure depends on the version of MIUI (12/13/14) and the status of the Mi Account. If you previously synced your device to the cloud, the chances of successful recovery without losing files are much higher. On models with a locked bootloader, some methods may not work - we will warn you about this in advance.

1. Unlocking through backup PIN-code

The fastest and safest way is to use a backup PIN, which is requested after 5 misty attempts to enter a pattern lock.This method works if you have previously configured it in the security menu.

How to do this:

• 🔢 Enter the graphical password 5 times in a row with an error, the screen will show a message: "Try again in 30 seconds" and the button "Reserve". PIN-code".
• 📱 Press the button and enter a 4- or 6-digit PIN, which you have specified when setting up the lock.
• 🔓 If the code is correct, the phone will unlock and you can change the graphical password in Settings. → Password and security.

⚠️ Attention: Redmi Note 8 with MIUI 14 and newer backup PIN It may not work if the device is not connected to the Internet.Be sure that Wi-Fi or mobile data is active before trying.

If you don’t remember the backup PIN or have never set it, move on to the next method, which is also not suitable if the screen is completely locked (for example, after resetting the settings).

2. Recovery through Mi Account (without loss of data)

The official method from Xiaomi, which works on most devices with an associated Mi Account. The main advantage is the preservation of user data (photos, contacts, messages).

• 📱 The phone is connected to the Internet (Wi-Fi or mobile network).
• 🔄 You have previously logged in to your Mi Account and never logged out.
• 🔒 On the device is not activated Find the device with a remote lock.

Step-by-step:

1. On the lock screen, click "Forgot your password?" (appears after 5 unsuccessful attempts).
2. Select “Recover through Mi Account” and enter the email/phone associated with the device.
3. Confirm the login via SMS or email (the code will come to the linked number / mail).
4. Create a new graphical password or PIN-code.

⚠️ Warning: If the "Find Device" function is activated on the phone (Settings) → Mi Cloud → Find the device, after recovery through the Mi Account, you may need additional verification. In this case, use the method with Fastboot (section 4).

If the phone is not connected to the network, try activating modem modem via USB-cable (on some firmware, this works even on a locked screen).

Remember email/phone account Mi| Check internet connection | Make sure battery is charged >30% | Access mail/phone to confirm-->

3. Reset via Recovery Mode (full data cleanup)

If previous methods have failed, hard resetting through Recovery Mode is left, which removes all data from the device, including photos, apps and settings, and only use it as a last resort.

Instructions for Redmi Note 8:

1. Turn off the phone with a long press of the power button.
2. Press the power button + increase volume for 10-15 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
3. In the Recovery menu, select the language (volume buttons) and confirm the choice with the power button.
4. Go to Wipe Data → Wipe All Data and confirm the reset.
5. Once you have finished, select Reboot → Reboot to System.

The phone will reboot in factory condition, and you will need to go through the initial setup, just like after you buy it.

⚠️ Note: Redmi Note 8 with a locked bootloader may require authorization of your previous Mi Account (even if you don't remember it) after a reset.

4. Unlock via Fastboot (for advanced users)

The method is for those who are willing to work with the command line.

• 🔧 You have access to a PC with Xiaomi drivers installed.
• 📥 You can download Mi Flash Tool and firmware for Redmi Note 8.
• 🔓 Bootloader unlocked on phone (if not, official permission from Xiaomi will be required).

Step-by-step:

1. Download and install the Mi Flash Tool and the firmware for Redmi Note 8 (select the Fastboot version).
2. Turn off the phone and put it in Fastboot mode: press the power button + volume reduction.
3. Connect the device to the PC through USB-cable.
4. Launch the Mi Flash Tool, press Select and point the path to the unpacked firmware.
5. Select Clean All mode and press Flash.
6. Wait for the process to complete (5-10 minutes) and restart the phone.

Once the firmware is in place, it'll be like new, but with the bootloader unlocked, and that will allow custom firmware to be installed in the future.

1. Install drivers manually through Device Manager (select "ADB Interface").

2. Use another USB-cable (preferably original).

3. Run the program on behalf of the administrator.-->

5. Alternative methods (for experienced users)

If standard methods don’t work, you can try to bypass the lock through ADB or third-party utilities, which require technical knowledge and do not always work on the latest versions of MIUI.

Method 1: Delete the key file via ADB

It works if the phone is debugging over USB and has access to a PC with ADB installed.

adb shell


su




rm /data/system/gesture.key




rm /data/system/locksettings.db




rm /data/system/locksettings.db-wal




rm /data/system/locksettings.db-shm




reboot

After the reboot, the graphical password will reset, but errors with system applications may occur.

Method 2: Use of Mi Account Unlock Tool

Third-party programs like Mi Account Unlock Tool or Xiaomi Tool V2 promise to unlock without losing data, but:

• ⚠️ Risk of blocking Mi Account for suspicious activity.
• 💻 Requires a PC with Windows and drivers installed.
• 🔒 On the new firmware (MIUI 13+) These tools often don’t work.

⚠️ Note: Using unofficial utilities may result in loss of warranty and blocking IMEI. We recommend these methods only as a last resort when other options have been exhausted.

How to Avoid Re-Blocking: Security Tips

Once you restore access to the Redmi Note 8, set up security settings to avoid repeated problems:

• 🔐 Use the combination. PIN + Fingerprint instead of a single pattern lock.
• 📧 Link your Mi Account and enable data synchronization in Settings → Mi Cloud.
• 📝 Write down the backup. PIN in a secure location (for example, in a password manager).
• 🔄 Regularly back up through Settings → Additionally. → Backup.

Also check the remote lock settings:

1. Go to Settings → Password and Security → Find the device.
2. Turn off the "Allow Remote Lock" option if you do not plan to use it.
3. Make sure that the "Trusted Devices" section lists your current phone.

💡

The most reliable way to protect is a combination of biometric authentication (fingerprint / face) + PIN-The pattern lock itself is unreliable and easily forgotten.

FAQ: Frequent questions about unlocking the Redmi Note 8