How to remove protection on Xiaomi: 5 proven methods without risk to data

Xiaomi devices are known for their multi-layered approach to security, from hardware encryption to proprietary MIUI protection. However, sometimes users are faced with the need to disable these mechanisms - whether it is a forgotten password, preparation for sale or installing custom firmware. In this article, we will discuss legitimate ways to remove protection without breaching warranty and data loss, and warn about the risks that are often hidden in the "universal" guides.

It’s important to understand that the term “remove security” on Xiaomi devices can mean things from resetting a pattern lock to unlocking a bootloader.We structured the material by difficulty levels, from basic techniques for beginners to advanced techniques for power users. All instructions are relevant for devices on MIUI 14/15 (including Xiaomi 13/14, Redmi Note 12, POCO F5) and take into account the latest changes in the brand’s security policy.

1. resetting of the pattern lock or PIN-code through Mi Account

The easiest way to unlock the screen is if you remember the data from your Mi Account, which works even when the Internet is off on your device (the data is synced the next time you connect).

Algorithm of action:

• 🔄 Enter the wrong password / key 5 times in a row - the button "Forgot the password" will appear?".
• 📱 Click on it and select Log in via Mi Account".
• 🔑 Enter the login and password from the associated account (if two-factor authentication is enabled, confirm with the code from the SMS).
• 📲 Create a new pattern lock or PIN-code.

⚠️ Note: If the device is not tied to the Mi Account or you don't remember the data, this method won't work.

2. Hard Reset: Complete resetting of settings

Hard Reset is a universal way to return the device to factory settings, but it removes all data from internal memory, including photos, messages and installed applications. Use it only if other methods are not available.

Instructions for devices with physical buttons:

1. Turn off your smartphone.
2. Press the Power button + Volume up for 10-15 seconds at the same time.
3. In the Recovery menu, select Wipe Data (use volume buttons for navigation, power button for confirmation).
4. Confirm the action by choosing Yes.
5. After reset, select Reboot System.

For devices with touch buttons (e.g. Xiaomi Mi Mix):

• 🔋 Squeeze the power. + Loudness up before the appearance of the Mi logo.
• 📱 In the Recovery menu tap on Wipe & Reset.
• 🔄 Select Wipe All Data and confirm it.

⚠️ Attention: On devices with MIUI 12+ After Hard Reset, you may need to enter data from the Mi Account that was previously linked (even if you don't remember it), which is a measure against theft - Mi Cloud Lock. If the account is not confirmed, the phone will turn into a brick".

3. Unlocking the bootloader (Bootloader) in an official way

Unlocking Bootloader is a must for installing custom firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience) or obtaining root rights. Xiaomi allows you to do this legally, but the process requires waiting and confirmation through the Mi Unlock Tool.

Step-by-step:

1. Link Mi Account to your device: 📱 Go to Settings. → Mi Account → Synchronization. 🔄 Enable "Data Synchronization" and "Find the device". 🔑 Link your account to your phone (required) SMS-confirmation).
2. Activate debugging on USB: 🔧 Go to Settings. → The phone. → Version. MIUI. 🔨 Stick to the "Version" MIUI" 7 times to activate the Developer Mode". 🔌 Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers and include "Debugging by" USB".

Connect the device to the PC:

• 💻 Download the Mi Unlock Tool (official tool).
• 🔌 Run the program on behalf of the administrator and log in to your Mi Account.
• 📱 Connect your phone in Fastboot mode (clip the power supply) + Loudness down).
• Run unlock: fastboot oem unlock The program will show a waiting timer (usually 72-168 hours).

⚠️ Warning: Unlocking Bootloader will void the warranty on devices purchased from official Xiaomi stores (including Mi Store and partners:

• 🚫 Google Pay and other payment services will stop working (due to the loss of SafetyNet).
• 📺 Widevine Protection (Netflix, Disney)+ will be shown in 480p instead 1080p).
• 🔄 Increased risk of installing malware.

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If the unlock timer is stuck at "99%", try changing the region in Mi Account to "China" (via VPN) and repeat the procedure.

4. bypass Mi Cloud Lock (if the phone is locked after reset)

Mi Cloud Lock is a security that is activated after Hard Reset if the device was tied to Mi Account. If you don't remember your account details, the phone becomes a brick with a login/password requirement. It's legally impossible to get around this lock, but there are several ways to restore access.

Official methods:

• 📧 Restor access to Mi Account via the Recovery page (access to the Recovery page is required) email/SMS).
• 📞 Contact the Xiaomi service center with documents confirming the purchase (check, warranty card).

Unofficial methods (at your own risk!)

• 🔧 Use of the EDL-Mode (requires an authorized Xiaomi account and special equipment).
• 💻 Programs like Mi Flash Pro or Xiaomi Tool V2 (They do not work on all models and can damage the firmware).

⚠️ Warning: Buying “unblocked” accounts on third-party platforms (such as AliExpress) is a scam. Xiaomi blocks such accounts for 1-2 weeks, and the device will become blocked again.

5. Remove protection through Fastboot and EDL modes

Fastboot and EDL (Emergency Download Mode) modes allow low-level interaction with the device, which are used to flash, restore bricks, or bypass some locks, but require technical skills and can result in complete data loss or device failure.

Work through Fastboot:

1. Install Android SDK Platform Tools on your PC.
2. Connect your phone in Fastboot mode (clip Power + Volume down).
3. Check the connection with the command: fastboot devices
4. To unlock the bootloader (if the timer has already expired): fastboot flashing unlock

EDL mode:

• 🔌 Requires a special cable (EDL cable) or circuits of the circuit board.
• 💻 Used with Mi Flash or QFil programs to firmware official software.
• 🚨 Risk: The wrong actions can hurt EMMC-accumulator.

⚠️ Note: Starting with Xiaomi 12 and Redmi Note 11 to work in EDL Authorization is required through an official Xiaomi account (available only to service centers). IMEI.

6. Alternative methods: disabling protection without data loss

If you need to temporarily disable protection (for example, to transfer files or configure your device), you can use less radical methods:

1. Safe Mode (Safe Mode):

• 🔄 Press the power button before the turn off menu appears.
• 🔘 Press the “Switch off” finger – a suggestion will appear to go to Safe Mode.
• 📱 This mode disables all third-party applications, including screen blockers (if they were installed separately).

2.Use of ADB (Android Debug Bridge):

• 🔧 Connect the phone to the PC with debugging enabled USB.
• 💻 Execute the command to delete the pattern lock: adb shell rm /data/system/gesture.key
• 🔄 Restart the device – the screen lock will be reset.

⚠️ Attention: Method C ADB It only works if the debugging has been enabled before the device is locked. MIUI 14+ This method may not work due to additional security checks.

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Always check before using alternative methods to see if this will activate the Mi Cloud Lock, for example, resetting the password via ADB on some models causes a forced binding to the Mi Account.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi security