The appearance of the message "this device is locked" on the Redmi 9 Pro screen often puts the owner at a loss by blocking access to basic smartphone functions. This problem is usually associated with activated FRP (Factory Reset Protection) protection, or linking the device to the Mi Account after a complete reset. Xiaomi security system requires proof of identity of the owner to prevent the use of the stolen or lost gadget by unauthorized persons.
Most of the time, a lock occurs if you have done Hard Reset through a button but have not logged out of your Google or Mi Cloud account beforehand. Android perceives such a run as an attempt at unauthorized access. However, there are proven methods to regain control of the gadget, which we will discuss in detail in this guide without resorting to complex paid services.
It is important to understand that the unlocking process can vary depending on the version of MIUI and the region for which your Redmi 9 Pro is released. Some methods require a computer connection and stable Internet, others can be performed directly on the lock screen.
Reasons for blocking Mi Account
The main reason for the "this device is locked" is a security mechanism implemented by Xiaomi. When you first log in to your profile on your smartphone, the unique device ID is stored on the manufacturer's servers. If the data is subsequently reset, the first boot, the system requests a password from this profile. Without the correct credentials, the phone becomes a "brick" with limited functionality.
Often users forget that the device was logged in to Mi Cloud, or buy a used gadget without checking its status. Also, blocking can occur when system files fail or after a failed firmware update. Server binding is not a bug, but a feature aimed at protecting the owner's data.
- 🔒 Completed a full reset (Wipe Data) without first exiting Mi acc
- 🔒 The device is listed as lost or stolen in the manufacturer's database.
- 🔒 Changing system files or trying to install custom Recovery without unlocking the bootloader
- 🔒 Buying a restored device that was not detached from the previous owner’s account
⚠️ Note: If you have purchased a Redmi 9 Pro handheld and are faced with such a lock, contact the seller. Without the data from the account to which the phone is attached, it is extremely difficult to legally unlock it, and in some cases impossible without contacting the service center with a check for purchase.
It's also worth noting that password attempts can be limited, and if you type in incorrect data too often, the system will temporarily block authorization, which is designed to protect against brute force password selection.
Official Unblocking Method through Mi Website
The most reliable and secure way to regain access to the Redmi 9 Pro is to use the official Xiaomi portal. This method does not require a computer and works directly through the browser of any device.
Go to id.mi.com or i.mi.com, enter your Mi ID (which could be a phone number or email). If you forgot your login, use the recovery function by following the on-screen prompts. The system will prompt you to send a confirmation code via SMS or email.
Once you have successfully logged in, go to the Device Management section, find your Redmi 9 Pro in the list, and select the option to delete your device from your account, then reboot your smartphone, and when you turn on, it will request a Wi-Fi connection, check the status on the server, and when the device is removed, it will let you log in.
Unlocking with the Mi Unlock Tool and the Mi Unlock Tool
If you have lost your account completely, but you are the legitimate owner, you can try the Bootloader unlocking procedure. However, if the phone is already blocked by the message "this device is locked", this method often requires prior authorization. However, for some firmware versions, it is possible to reset through special scripts that work in conjunction with the Mi Unlock Tool.
First, you'll need to install the ADB and Fastboot drivers on your computer. Then download the official Mi Unlock utility from the manufacturer's website. Launch the program and log in to your Mi Account (not the one on your phone, but any work account). Turn off your smartphone and go to Fastboot mode, holding the volume and power buttons simultaneously.
Connect the device to the PC with a cable. In the utility, press the Unlock button. If status permits, unlock will occur. However, most often, the Redmi 9 Pro requires a wait of 7 to 168 hours after applying for an unlock.
| Parameter | Requirement/Status | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Connection mode | Fastboot | Click Power + Vol Down |
| Drivers. | Qualcomm / ADB | Mandatory for PC |
| Waiting time | 7 to 168 hours | Depends on the region and version of MIUI |
| Battery | More than 50% | To avoid shutdown |
⚠️ Attention: The process of unlocking the bootloader through the Mi Unlock Tool completely removes all data from the internal drive. Make sure you have a backup of important files if you have the ability to retrieve them.
There are also third-party tools, such as XiaomiADB-Fastboot-Tools, that allow you to remove some system applications and sometimes help circumvent restrictions, but their use carries risks.
Google Account (FRP) bypasses Redmi 9 Pro
Often, after a reset, the phone requires Google to confirm an account that has been synced before. This is FRP protection. For Redmi 9 Pro, there are specific methods of bypassing, depending on the version of the Android security patch. One common way is to exploit vulnerabilities in the special features menu or through the browser.
In the welcome phase, connect to Wi-Fi. Then quickly tap several times on the password field or use a button combination to call the special feature menu (TalkBack). Activating the voice assistant allows you to access system settings where you can turn off account verification or install a third-party reset application.
Another method involves using the Google app. TV Youtube (if available on the lock screen) or Youtube (if available on the "About" or "User Agreement" menu, you can open your browser, download it. APK-dump-tool FRP (for example, FRP Bypass) and install them. Once installed, launch the application and follow the instructions for adding a new account.
- 📱 Activate TalkBack with triple tap or a combination of volume buttons
- 📱 Draw the letter “L” or use voice input to launch the browser
- 📱 Download. APK-comb-file FRP via built-in browser
- 📱 Install the app and perform a Google anchor reset
Important: FRP bypass methods are constantly patched by Google.What worked on the January 2023 security patch may not work on the more recent update.The Redmi 9 Pro gets regular updates, so the relevance of the method is a key success factor.
Recovery Mode Reset and its Limitations
Many users try to solve the problem of "this device is locked" by simply resetting through Recovery Mode. To enter this mode on Redmi 9 Pro, you need to turn off your phone and press the volume and power button. From the menu that appears, select Wipe Data -> Wipe All Data.
However, if the device has Mi Cloud protection enabled, a simple reset through the recavators will not remove the lock. After the reboot, the phone will again request the password from the Mi Account. Moreover, in some cases, if you try to flash global firmware over the Chinese one without the unlocked bootloader, you will also receive a lock message.
Recovery Mode is only useful if you have forgotten the pattern lock or password from the lock screen, but remember the data from the Mi Account. In this case, the reset will remove the screen key, and knowing the password from the cloud will allow you to activate the device again.
fastboot erase userdata
fastboot erase cacheExecuting these commands via ADB requires USB debugging enabled, which is not normally available on a locked phone, so this method only works if the debugging has been enabled before, and the lock is software-based rather than server-based.
Prevention and safety recommendations
To avoid the Redmi 9 Pro becoming a useless piece of plastic, there are simple digital hygiene rules: Always untie your device before selling or dumping, not just the Mi Account, but Google, Samsung (if applicable) and other services.
Write your credentials in a safe place. Using password managers or a paper notebook stored in a safe place will save you a lot of problems. Also, you should not buy Xiaomi smartphones from hand without checking for bindings. When you turn on someone else's device, you immediately see a request to log in to the previous owner's account.
Regularly update your firmware only through official channels, and installing dubious builds from enthusiasts can lead to errors in the operation of security modules, which will cause a false lock of the device by the verification server.