The situation where a Xiaomi or Redmi device requests a password from a Mi Account after a reset or purchase is one of the most common and stressful for users: Mi Cloud (Find Device) protection is created for security, but often becomes a barrier for the rightful owner, especially if data is lost or the device is purchased from hand.
Trying to guess the password can lead to a temporary lock of the account for 24 hours or more, which only exacerbates the problem. It is important to understand that the server-based linking of the device to the account is at the level of hardware and servers of the company, so simply resetting the settings through the menu will not help. In this article, we will discuss legal and proven ways to restore access that will help regain control of the gadget.
Don't panic if you're confronted with a message saying "This device is locked" or a login requirement. The lock is only removed after you've successfully logged in to the account to which the device is linked, or through an official check to support, and we'll look at everything from password recovery to engineering menus so you can choose the right solution.
Reasons for blocking and types of protection Xiaomi
Before you start taking action, you need to clearly identify the type of lock you are facing. Most often users confuse Google FRP (Factory Reset Protection) and your own Mi Account protection system. The first is activated when you reset Android settings and requires you to log in to a Google account that was synced earlier.
The second, more specific to the Xiaomi ecosystem, is activated by Find Device. If this option is enabled, the phone is tightly tied to the Mi ID. Even after flashing or completely resetting (Wipe Data), when connected to the Internet, the device will request a password from the last account used, this is done to protect against theft: an attacker will not be able to use the phone.
Also worth mentioning is the region-specific lock, or IMEI, that can occur when you buy a device destined for the Chinese market (CN Version) in other countries, in which case the system may require you to change the region of your SIM card or account, and understanding the nature of the restriction is the first step to eliminating it.
In some cases, the blockage may be caused by suspicious activity, such as multiple attempts to enter from different locations. IP-The security system automatically freezes access to protect data, and if you see a message about a temporary lock, the best solution is to wait for the specified time and not make new attempts to log in so that the timer does not reset.
Official Recovery Method through Mi Account
The most reliable and secure method of unlocking is to restore access through the official portal id.mi.com. This method requires that you have access to the phone number or email that was associated with the account.
The system will offer multiple ways to verify identity, most of which are SMS-a code for a linked number or a letter with a link to reset to an email. Enter the phone number in an international format (e.g, +7999...) or email address. If the data is correct, you will receive a confirmation code.
☑️ Password recovery algorithm
After a successful password change, the system may require a wait of 15 minutes to 24 hours before using the new login data on the locked device.This is a security measure: Enter the new data in the login field on the smartphone, make sure the device is connected to stable Wi-Fi, and the lock will be removed.
⚠️ Note: If the phone number associated with the account is no longer valid or you do not have access to the mail, you will not be able to restore the password in the standard way.
Device untie procedure through Xiaomi support
If you lose contact information, the only legal way to do this is to use the support service to get Mi Account Unlock, so you need proof of ownership of the device, go to the special unlock page (usually available on the search engine's "Xiaomi unlock account") and fill out the form.
You will need to upload a scan or clear photo of a check to purchase a device, warranty card or box with a visible IMEI. Code. IMEI You can find it on the box or, if the phone turns on, dial *#06# in the phone. IMEI lock-screen.
| Type of document | Photo requirements | Probability of success |
|---|---|---|
| Cash check | IMEI, date, store clearly visible | Tall. |
| Guarantee pass | Store print, IMEI match | Medium |
| Phone box. | IMEI sticker and barcode | Low (no check) |
| Screenshot of the order | Account data, IMEI, status paid | High (for online shopping) |
After submitting the application, moderators will review the documents within 3-5 business days, if all is correct, you will receive an email with a link to untie the device, clicking on it, you will delete the Mi Account binding, and after rebooting the phone can be activated as new.
What should I do if my check is lost?
Using Recovery Mode to Reset Data
Many users try to bypass the lock via Recovery Mode, a method that allows you to completely clear the device data, but as mentioned earlier, does not remove the Mi Cloud binding. However, a reset is necessary if you change your password and wait for the timer to expire, or if the phone is glitchy.
To enter recovery mode on most Xiaomi and Redmi models, you need to turn off the phone, then press the Volume Up and Power buttons simultaneously. Hold them until the Mi logo or Recovery menu appears.
From the menu, select the language (usually English or Chinese), then go to Wipe Data -> Wipe All Data. Confirm. The process will take a few minutes. Once completed, select Reboot -> Reboot to System.
⚠️ Attention: After resetting via Recovery, the device will ask for a Wi-Fi network to activate. Without an Internet connection, you can't check the lock status. If the account is still tied, you'll see a lock screen.
There is also a Fastboot mode (Loud Down + Power) that is used for deep flashing through a PC. However, for a regular user who does not have an unlocked bootloader, flashing in this mode will not remove the protection of the Mi Account, since the verification is on the server.
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Tip: Before running Wipe Data, make sure the battery is at least 50% charged. Interrupting the reset process due to discharge can damage system files and need to flash through the computer.
Problems with verification codes and their solution
A common problem with recovery is the inability to obtain SMS-This may be due to a number lock by the operator, being in roaming or technical failures of the Xiaomi gateways. 5-10 Do not ask for it indefinitely – this will lead to a number lock.
Try to choose an alternative method of obtaining code, such as a voice call (if available) or an email. IP-Addresses: switch from Wi-Fi to mobile Internet or vice versa. Sometimes servers block requests from certain ranges IP.
If you have an active Mi session on another device (tablet, old phone, PC in your browser), you can change your password or phone number right there, without having to enter a code on the locked device.
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Main thought: If the SMS does not come more than 2 hours, the problem is most likely on the side of the operator or servers Xiaomi. Continuing to enter will only prolong the lock. Use voice call or change device to restore.
In some cases, clearing the cache of Google and Mi Account services helps. To do this, go to Settings -> Apps -> All Apps, look for Accounts and Sync or Mi Cloud, click Clear -> Clear Everything. Then try to log in again.