How to remove the password for the protection of personal data on Xiaomi: 5 working methods

Introduction: What is Xiaomi’s Data Protection Password and Why It Can’t Be Simply Deleted

Privacy Protection Password on Xiaomi Smartphones (including Redmi, POCO and Mi series 11/12/13/14) — It is not a normal pattern lock or PIN-This is an additional layer of encryption that is activated when you turn on the Privacy Protection feature in your security settings, and its main task is to block access to files, contacts, messages and applications even after resetting to factory settings via Recovery.

Unlike standard unlock code, this password is tied to the device’s hardware ID and Mi Account.This means that simple formatting via Wipe Data won’t help – the phone will require you to enter a data protection password when you first boot after a reset. Moreover, on new models (starting with MIUI 13), the system can lock the device for 72 hours after several failed input attempts.

Why does it matter? Because 90 percent of the instructions on the Internet suggest resetting your phone via Recovery Mode, but they don't mention that you'll still be asked for a data protection password. In this article, we'll look at all the current ways of bypassing, from official (via Mi Account) to technical (via Fastboot and EDL), which work even without a linked account.

Method 1: Reset via Mi Account (official method)

If your device is tied to a Mi Account and you have access to an email/phone, this method is the easiest. It works on all models, including the Redmi Note 10/11/12, POCO F3/F4/F5 and Xiaomi 13T/14.

Instructions:

• 📱 On the data protection password entry screen, click Forgot Password? (or Forgot Password in English firmware).
• 🔗 Choose the method of recovery: SMS (if the number is attached or email.
• 📧 Enter the confirmation code received by mail/phone.
• 🔑 Create a new data protection password (remember or save it in the password manager!).

⚠️ Warning: If you've previously disabled sync with Mi Account or reset your phone without logging out, this method won't work.

Method 2: Fastboot Reset (for unlocked bootloader)

This is a good way to do it if you have a bootloader unlocked or you're ready to unlock it, and it works on most models, except the Xiaomi 12S Ultra and 13 Pro, which use enhanced protection, and the advantage of this method is that you don't need to be tied to your Mi Account, but there's a risk of data loss.

What you need:

• 🖥️ Computer with drivers installed ADB/Fastboot (You can download it on the Android Studio website).
• 🔌 Cable USB (preferably original).
• 📱 Phone with a charge of at least 50%.

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off the phone. Press the Power button + Volume down to enter the Fastboot Mode.
2. Connect the phone to the computer.
3. Open the command line (cmd) and type: fastboot oem clean_all This command will reset all data, including the password protection.
4. Once completed, type: fastboot reboot Phone will restart in clean state.

⚠️ Note: On some models (POCO X3 Pro, Redmi K40) team clean_all This may not work because of the manufacturer's lockdown, and you'll need to use it. EDL Mode (method) 4).

Download. ADB/Fastboot Tools|Install drivers for your Xiaomi model|Check the battery charge (minimum) 50%)|Prepare original USB-cable|Download the firmware for your model (in case of recovery)-->

Method 3: Use of TWRP (for stitched devices)

If your Xiaomi has custom TWRP recovery installed, you can reset your data protection password without losing all files, a method that is suitable for advanced users, as it requires working with the file system.

Algorithm of action:

1. Download your phone to TWRP Recovery (clip Power + Volume up).
2. Go to Advanced → File Manager.
3. Delete the following files: /data/system/locksettings.db /data/system/locksettings.db-wal /data/system/locksettings.db-shm /data/system/gatekeeper.password.key /data/system/gatekeeper.pattern.key
4. Reset the phone. The data protection password will be reset.

💡 Useful tip: Before deleting files, back them up to TWRP (This will help you recover data if something goes wrong.

Method 4: EDL mode (for locked devices)

EDL Mode (Emergency Download Mode) is an emergency firmware mode that allows you to reflash your phone even without an unlocked bootloader.It works on all Xiaomi models, but requires special hardware (EDL cable or testpoint) and knowledge of the Mi Flash Tool commands.

⚠️ Attention: Misuse of the right EDL This method is recommended only as a last resort if other methods have not worked.

How it works:

• 🔧 Connect your phone to your computer in mode EDL (usually through the closure of contacts on the board or a special cable).
• 🖥️ Launch the Mi Flash Tool and select the firmware for your model (you can download it on the official Xiaomi website).
• 📥 Press Flash and wait until the process is complete (usually). 5-10 minute).
• 🔄 After firmware, the phone will restart in clean state without password protection.

🔹 Key conclusion: EDL — It's the most reliable way to reset your data protection password, but it's also the most risky way. If you're not sure about your skills, you should go to a service center.

Method 5: Contact Xiaomi Service Center

If all previous methods have failed or you are afraid of damaging your phone, the only reliable option is to contact Xiaomi’s official service center, which has access to special tools to reset your data protection password, including the Mi Authorized Tool.

What will be required:

• 📄 Document confirming the purchase (checks, warranty card).
• 🆔 Passport or other identification document.
• 📱 The device itself with a charge of at least 30%.

⚠️ Note: In informal services can offer "bypass" password for less money, but this is fraught with risk:

• 🚫 Installation of unlicensed software.
• 🔓 Loss of guarantee.
• 🕵️‍♂️ Data theft (if the phone is not fully formatted).

The cost of resetting the password protection in the official Xiaomi service in 2026 is from 1500 to 3000 rubles, depending on the model. the deadline is from 1 to 3 days.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

When trying to reset a data protection password, users often face typical problems, and here are the most common ones and ways to solve them:

1. Error "This device is locked" in Fastboot Reason: bootloader is locked. Solution: Unlock it through the official Xiaomi tool (it will require a tied Mi Account and wait 7-15 days).
2. Phone is not defined in Mi Flash Tool Reason: Drivers are not installed or EDL is incorrectly activated. Solution: Install Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008 drivers and check the connection.
3. After resetting, the phone requires an old password Reason: The encryption data has not been completely deleted Solution: Repeat the reset via Fastboot with the fastboot format userdata command.

💡 Useful tip: Before any manipulation of the phone, make a backup copy IMEI (through MTK Engineering Mode or Qualcomm QPST). This will save you from losing your network after a failed firmware.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions