How to remove application protection on Xiaomi Redmi 9T: print-to-print PIN-code

Xiaomi Redmi 9T is one of the most popular budget smartphones with extensive security features, but sometimes these features become an obstacle. Forgot the password from the secure application? Can't log into banking software because of a fingerprint failure? Or just want to disable the annoying lock for convenience? In this article, we will discuss all the legal and technically safe ways to remove protection - from standard MIUI settings to advanced methods using ADB.

It’s important to understand that application protection in Redmi 9T is implemented on two levels – through MIUI system tools (e.g., Application Protection in Security Settings) and through third-party launchers (like Nova Launcher or POCO Launcher).We’ll look at both options, as well as solutions for cases where standard methods don’t work: reset via Fastboot, bypass locking through Safe Mode, and even manually editing configuration files.

Warning: Some methods require unlocking the bootloader or the rights of the superuser (root), which can lead to loss of warranty or unstable operation of the device. If you are not sure about your skills, contact the Xiaomi service center.

1. Standard disabling of protection through MIUI settings

The easiest way is to use built-in tools. MIUI. This method is suitable if you remember the password or PIN-The code is off the guard, but you want to turn it off. 9T firmware MIUI The 12-14 path to settings may be slightly different, but the overall logic holds.

Open the Settings menu → Passwords and Security → Application Protection. Here you will see a list of all blocked programs.

• 🔓 Click on the icon of the application you want to unlock.
• 📱 Enter the current password, PIN or confirm the fingerprint.
• ⚙️ Switch the slider "Application Protection" to the Off position.
• 🗑️ To completely disable the function, go back to the main menu "Application Protection" and deactivate it entirely.

If you don't have the right app on the list, check if you're using a third-party launcher. Some shells (like POCO Launcher) have their own lock mechanisms. In this case, look at the launcher settings - usually there's an "App Lock" or "Privacy" section.

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If the application continues to request a password after the protection is turned off, restart the smartphone. Sometimes MIUI caches the security settings.

2. Reset protection through the Mi Account (if you forgot the password)

Forgot the application protection password, but tied the device to your Mi Account? In this case, you can use the recovery function.

• 📱 Smartphone connected to the Internet (Wi-Fi or mobile network).
• 🔑 Remember the username and password from Mi Account.
• ⚠️ The device does not activate the developer mode with disabled synchronization.

Instructions:

1. Go to Settings → Mi Account → Cloud → Data Recovery.
2. Select the option “Restore security settings”.
3. Confirm the action via SMS or email (if two-factor authentication is enabled).
4. After recovery, go to Application Protection and unblock.

⚠️ Note: If you have previously disabled the synchronization of security settings in Mi Cloud, this method will not work).

3. bypassing protection through Safe Mode (without loss of data)

Safe Mode allows you to temporarily disable all third-party applications and some system restrictions. This is useful if application protection was installed through third-party software (such as AppLock or Smart AppLock). 9T The safe mode entry is done in this way:

1. Press the power button until the shutdown menu appears.
2. Press and hold the "Switch off" option (or "Reboot" in some firmware).
3. Confirm the transition to Safe Mode (the inscription will appear in the lower left corner of the screen).

In safe mode:

• 🔓 Try to run a blocked application – if the protection was installed through third-party software, it will open without a password.
• 📱 Remove the application that blocks access (e.g. AppLock).
• ⚙️ Restart the device in normal mode.

Important: Safe Mode won’t help if the protection is installed through MIUI system tools (e.g., the built-in Application Protection) in which case, move on to the next section.

4.Use ADB to remove protection (for advanced)

If the standard methods did not work, and unlocking the bootloader is not a problem for you - you can use it. ADB (Android Debug Bridge: This method requires a computer, USB-Cable and Developer Mode on Redmi 9T.

Preparation:

1. Activate Developer Mode: Go to Settings → About Phone → MIUI version and press 7 times.
2. Return to Settings → Additional → For developers and enable USB debugging.
3. Connect your smartphone to your PC and confirm your trust in your computer.

Next, run commands in ADB (via Command Prompt or Terminal):

adb shell pm list packages | grep "applock"


adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.miui.applock

The first command will show all the packages associated with the lock (look for lines with applock or security); the second command will remove the application protection system application for the current user.

⚠️ Note: Removing system applications through ADB It can lead to unstable work MIUI. If errors occur after the operation, restore the application via the command: adb shell cmd package install-existing com.miui.applock

Install Xiaomi drivers on PC| Enable USB debugging on your smartphone | Download ADB platform (e.g. Minimal ADB) | Connect your phone with the original cable-->

5 Hard Reset – a last resort

If no method has worked, you can reset your settings completely, and you can delete all the data from your device, including passwords, accounts and installed apps, and you can do it in two ways on the Redmi 9T.

Method 1: Through the settings menu

1. Go to Settings → About Phone → Backup and Reset → Reset settings.
2. Select “Erase all data”.
3. Confirm the action and wait for the reboot.

Method 2: Recovery Mode (if the phone is locked)

1. Turn off your smartphone.
2. Press the power button + volume up until the Mi logo appears.
3. Select the language, then the "Wipe Data" option (use volume buttons for navigation).
4. Confirm the reset and wait until it is completed.

Once reset, the device will return to factory settings, and all application locks will be removed, but you will have to reconfigure the smartphone.

6. Alternative methods: root and editing system files

Additional methods are available for users with unlocked bootloaders and root rights, one of which is manual editing of configuration files, where the lock settings are stored. For example, in MIUI, some application protection settings are stored in:

/data/system/users/0/settings_secure.xml


/data/system/users/0/app_lock_config.xml

To change these files:

1. Install a file manager with root support (such as Root Explorer or Solid Explorer).
2. Find the files and open them in the text editor.
3. Remove the lines containing app_lock or miui.app.lock.
4. Save the changes and restart the device.

⚠️ Warning: Incorrect editing of system files can lead to bootloop ( looped boot).Before changes, back up through TWRP Or OrangeFox Recovery.

7. How to prevent re-blocking

To avoid the problem again, follow the following simple rules:

• 🔐 Use one universal password for all locks (or write it in a secure location).
• 📱 Regularly check the application protection settings in MIUI — Sometimes updates reset parameters.
• 🔄 Turn off automatic locking for frequently used applications (e.g. messengers).
• 🛡️ Do not install third-party locks (such as AppLock) – they often conflict with system tools.

If you often forget passwords, consider alternative protections:

• 👆 Use a fingerprint instead of a fingerprint. PIN-code (on Redmi) 9T scanner is stable).
• 📷 Set up facial recognition (although it's less secure).
• 🔗 Link Mi Account to restore access.

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The most reliable way to avoid blocking issues is to use the built-in MIUI tools and regularly sync your settings with the Mi Cloud.

FAQ: Frequent questions about app protection on Redmi 9T