Pattern Locks Are Unsafe: Secure Your Xiaomi 14 Ultra Phone Now with These Tips

Pattern locks have been available for about as long as people can remember, and they have been hugely popular with people thanks to how easy it is to simply swipe your screen and unlock your smartphone, as against, say, keying in the 4-digit PIN/ 6-digit PIN. However, pattern locks are easy to crack, and today, we bring you all you want to know about pattern locks and how to create a hard pattern lock. Further to this, we also tell you how to move beyond pattern locks and what to do in case you forgot the hard pattern lock you just set and are unable to unlock your smartphone.

Part 1: What You Need to Know About Pattern Locks

Pattern lock is an Android-only feature that makes it easy for users to have a modicum of security on their smartphones. Most users do not prefer using and remembering a PIN to unlock the smartphone. Creating a pattern makes it easier, somehow.

There is a 9-point grid on which you swipe your finger from point to point, in any direction, and when you take your finger off, that pattern you swiped becomes the key to unlock your smartphone.

Pattern locks were exceedingly common only a few years ago, and they are not recommended for use any longer due to concerns (mentioned later in the article).

1.1: Popularity and Usage

Old habits die hard, or so they say, right? That’s because it is true. We are creatures of habit, and pattern locks have been around for a long, long time. We are accustomed to pattern locks. So, even with even easier technologies such as fingerprint recognition and face recognition, we tend to gravitate towards the familiar old pattern lock.

The only thing is, there is a reason why pattern locks are no longer the preferred option to use for unlocking your smartphones. As it happens, that reason is security, and it can be very easy for humans to take a swipe (pardon the pun) at your pattern lock. And guess what? The research conducted suggests that they would get it right with an unsettling accuracy.

1.2: Advantages and Drawbacks

With on-the-go lifestyles, our smartphones have become indispensable and contain some of the most sensitive aspects of our lives – IDs, credit and debit cards in digital wallets, photo and video memories, business documents – you name it, the smartphones have it, on the go. This has opened our lives up to the public at large, and if someone steals our smartphone or, best case, finds it, the only barrier preventing them from being privy to all that wealth of our sensitive information is that screen lock – the pattern lock that we set on our smartphones. That’s it – the single pattern lock stands between malicious actors and our data. You might be beginning to realize just how crazy this is.

Advantages of Pattern Locks

There are two advantages to using pattern locks. One, they are better than nothing. Two, they are easy to use. And that’s about it. There is no third advantage to pattern locks. We might think we set a hard pattern lock that nobody could guess, but, as research proves, we might be thinking too low of human prowess.

Disadvantages of Pattern Locks

Security, or rather, the lack of it, is the lone disadvantage of using a pattern lock. What good is a pattern lock that can be easily deciphered? Sure, they are easy to use, and they are better than not having anything, but would you really want to protect your life’s data with something that could be, as researchers found out, breached in under 5 attempts? We don’t think you do!

The research found that 64% of test subjects who were shown videos of people unlocking their phones could correctly guess a 6-point pattern lock, that too after viewing the video only once! That number shot up to 80% if they were allowed to see the video again. That is simply astounding and a nightmare for security. When it comes to PINs, only 11% could guess a 6-digit PIN after viewing the unlocking video once, and that number shot up to 27% when they could see the video two times.

Part 2: How To Create a Hard Pattern Lock (Including Remembering Complex Patterns)

Now, if you must continue using a pattern lock, let’s help you know how to create a hard pattern lock that would not be as easy to decipher as easy pattern locks. For that, you should know how people use pattern locks, the kind of pattern locks they create, and the ones that are the most commonly used pattern locks. That way, you can avoid those fallacies and create a hard pattern lock for your smartphone.

2.1: The Pattern Locks People Use Most Commonly

Marte Loge, an M.Sc. Computer Science student, gave a presentation on pattern locks at DEFCON 23 and made a bold claim. She said, “Tell me who you are, and I will tell you your lock pattern.”

She presented the following statistics to support her claim:

• - In her research, she found that 77% of people started with one of the 4 corners when creating a pattern lock.
• - 44% of people started with the top-left dot and 15% with the top-right, while the bottom-left was preferred by 14% of her test subjects.
• - People set 5-point pattern locks on average, and most users were content with a 4-point pattern.

These are some of the most common pattern locks people create:

• - patterns in the shapes of alphabets,
• - patterns in the shapes of numerals,
• - patterns in any other simple shape, such as square, triangle, star, etc.

To understand how this is a security nightmare, the possible combinations for a 4-point pattern are a measly 1624, whereas by adding just 1 more point to the pattern and creating a 5-point pattern, the number of possible combinations becomes 7152, an increase of 5528 combinations. In stark contrast, creating a 9-point pattern would give you over 140,000 possible combinations!

2.2: How to Create a Hard Pattern Lock

Knowing what most people do when creating a pattern lock, it becomes easy to avoid those mistakes and instead create a hard pattern lock for oneself.

• - Do not start creating a pattern lock from any of the 4 corners of the grid.
• - Never use your first initial as your pattern lock.
• - Never use the shape of a numeral as your pattern lock.
• - Use all 9 points on the grid to create your pattern lock, and contrary to popular belief, you can go over the connecting lines several times, creating a hard pattern lock that would not be as easy for people to decipher!

Part 3: Going Beyond Pattern Locks

You might think that now that you have set a hard pattern lock, you are good to go. Hardly. Technology has evolved, so have methods to break into your device.

Step 1: Set a 6-digit PIN

The minimum you should do today is set a 6-digit PIN to unlock your phone. Consider this a necessary investment into the safety of your data residing on your smartphone.

Step 2: Use Fingerprint Recognition (or Face Recognition on Apple Devices)

All modern smartphones released over the last decade have come with fingerprint recognition. Using fingerprint recognition requires you to set a 6-digit PIN and then set a fingerprint to unlock your device. You can set additional fingerprints, too.

This way, your device is the most secure it can be today. In case your fingerprint is not recognized for any reason, the phone falls back on the 6-digit PIN that you can enter and unlock your phone.

While face recognition is available on both Android and Apple devices, it is truly secure only on Apple devices. This is why Apple iPhones released after the iPhone X in 2017 have come only with Face ID. They fall back on a minimum 6-digit PIN (called Passcode in Apple world) to unlock in case the face does not get recognized in the first attempt.

Part 4: How To Unlock Phone If Hard Pattern Lock Forgotten

Just in case you set a hard pattern lock and promptly forgot that abstruse pattern you just set, we have a tool for you to quickly unlock your phone in case of a forgotten hard pattern lock: Wondershare Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android)

Remove the Hard Pattern Lock on Your Xiaomi 14 Ultra If You Forgot!

• Remove all Android screen locks (PIN/pattern/fingerprints/face ID) in minutes.
• Bypass the FRP lock of Samsung without a PIN or Google account.
• Everyone can handle the lock screen without any tech knowledge.
• Provide specific removal solutions to promise good success rate.

4,008,671 people have downloaded it

Download the latest version of Dr.Fone from the Wondershare website and launch the app.

Step 1: Click Android under Toolbox > Screen Unlock.

Step 2: Click Unlock Android Screen.

Step 3: Select your device manufacturer.

Step 4: Prepare your device to unlock the screen.

When the greyed Next button becomes available, click it and wait for your device to be unlocked.

All data on the Xiaomi 14 Ultra device is wiped under this method. Select Samsung phones may be unlocked without data loss. Check this list for devices that may be unlocked without data loss.

Closing Words

Whether it is an easy pattern lock or a hard pattern lock, the fact is that pattern locks are antiquated and a security nightmare. A minimum 6-digit PIN must be used, and using fingerprint recognition is the preferred way to go for Android devices. Using fingerprint recognition will require that users create a 6-digit PIN. On Apple devices launched after 2017, there is Face ID, Apple’s marketing term for face recognition. If you did indeed still set a hard pattern lock, only to promptly forget it, use Wondershare Dr.Fone – Screen Unlock (Android) to seamlessly unlock your phone right now.

A Perfect Guide To Remove or Disable Google Smart Lock On Xiaomi 14 Ultra

Google services are pivotal in enhancing user experience and securing personal data. Among these services, Google Smart Lock stands out for its ingenious features. These are integrated into Android devices, simplifying access and bolstering security. However, there are instances where users seek to disable or remove Google Smart Lock.

This article goes through the details of Google Smart Lock and its significance. It offers a solution to address unexpected screen lock scenarios on Android devices.

Part 1. Understanding Google Smart Lock and How It Works?

Want to know what is Google Smart Lock? Google Smart Lock serves as a multi-purpose tool within the Google ecosystem. It is designed to streamline security measures and password management access across platforms. At its core, Google Smart Lock operates as a feature that manages passwords. Google Smart Lock aims to enhance authentication processes. Primarily, it operates across Android devices and computers.

It offers a unified approach to security, ensuring you don’t have to remember all the passwords. Google Smart Lock securely stores and manages passwords for websites and apps. It enables users to access these services without repeatedly entering login details. When you visit a familiar website or app, Google Smart Lock fills in the login credentials. It automatically provides the login ID and password, maintaining effortless access.

Part 2. Recognizing Some Top Features of Google Smart Lock

Google Smart Lock’s password management has revolutionized how users handle and secure their login credentials. It remains a cornerstone when handling Android devices and computer systems. The following are several notable features that significantly enhance user convenience and security:

1. Password Autofill

Google Smart Lock simplifies the login process across apps and websites. It does that by automatically filling in saved credentials. This eliminates the need for users to remember and manually input passwords.

2. Cross-Platform Synchronization

It synchronizes saved passwords across multiple devices using the same Google account. This ensures smooth access to credentials on Android devices and computers.

3. Secure Storage

Passwords stored within Google Smart Lock are encrypted and securely stored in the user’s Google account. This maintains confidentiality and safeguards sensitive login information.

4. Effortless Password Generation

It allows the creation of strong and unique passwords when signing up for new accounts. That enhances overall account security and allows users to have strong passwords.

These features significantly ease the burden of password management and enhance user security. Yet, Google Smart Lock does have limitations that prompt some users to consider removing it.

Part 3. Why Is It Essential To Remove Google Smart Lock?

Despite its array of benefits, there are times when users consider removing or disabling Google Smart Lock. Described below are these limitations to better grasp why users might choose to Google Smart Lock turn off:

1. Privacy Concerns

Some users focus on privacy and feel uncomfortable with Google Smart Lock’s access to their passwords. The reason behind this is how easily anyone can access the saved password. All they need to do is access “Manage Passwords” in Google Chrome, and all their passwords will be open. This leads them to opt for more private password management options.

2. Glitches and Technical Issues

Technical glitches in the functioning of Google Smart Lock can be frustrating. This is especially prominent when managing passwords with similar usernames across different websites. The same can happen when using similar passwords for different websites or apps. Users experiencing such issues can seek to remove it to restore regular operations.

3. No Updates

You should be aware that Google Smart Lock for Passwords has been deprecated. This indicates it no longer receives updates or support from Google. Developers are advised to opt for Google’s One Tap Sign-in feature as an alternative by Google. It provides a more efficient and secure method for signing in to apps and websites.

4. Preference for Third-Party Tools

Certain users might have a preference for specialized third-party password management tools. They can go for solutions that offer a wider array of features. Many users might want to find options better aligned with their specific needs. This prompts them to disable Google Smart Lock.

Part 4. Understanding Some Effective Ways To Disable or Remove Google Smart Lock

If you want to disable Google Smart Lock on your devices, it is a relatively easy thing to do. Several ways are available to disable or remove Google Smart Lock from devices. These approaches cater to users’ diverse needs and preferences. Here is how to turn off Google Smart Lock:

Way 1. Disabling Google Smart Lock on Your Android

To deactivate Google Smart Lock on your Android device, you can use Chrome. Google Chrome is the main hub for storing all your login credentials for websites and apps. This provides the quickest way to disable Google Smart Lock. To disable Google Smart Lock from the Chrome app on your Android device, follow these steps:

• Step 1. Begin by opening the Google Chrome app on your Android device. Then, tap the “three dots” icon from the top right corner and press “Settings.”

• Step 2. Within the Settings, choose “Passwords,” and on the following screen, look for the “Save passwords” and “Auto Sign-in” options. Toggle off both options to disable the Google Smart Lock feature from your Android.

Way 2. Removing Google Smart Lock From Android Settings

Google Smart Lock enables users to keep their phones unlocked under specific, pre-approved, and secure conditions. This simplifies device usage by eliminating the need to input passwords or security codes. The basic working of this aspect of Google Smart Lock, now known as “Extend Unlock,” is divided into three parts.

The first one is on-body detection, which keeps the Xiaomi 14 Ultra device unlocked when it’s carried or held by the user. The other two are “Trusted Places” and “Trusted Devices.” Users can set specific locations, like home or work, as “Trusted Places.” When the Xiaomi 14 Ultra device is within these locations, it remains unlocked and accessible. Smart Lock integrates biometric authentication methods to unlock devices.

As helpful as it is in managing access to your Android device, privacy concerns can cause users to disable this lock. The following are the steps you can take to disable Google Smart Lock/Extend Unlock via Android settings:

• Step 1. Access “Settings” on your Android device and scroll down to tap “Passwords & security.” Here, press the option labeled as “Privacy.”

• Step 2. On the following screen, head to the “Trust agents” option and toggle off the “Smart Lock (Google)” option to disable the feature on your device.

Way 3. Disabling Google Smart Lock From Chrome

While you can manage this feature on Android devices, it is also available on Google Chrome on your computer. To disable Google Smart Lock from Google Chrome on your computer or laptop, you can follow these steps:

• Step 1. On your computer, access Google Chrome and click the “three dots” near the top right corner. From the context menu, choose “Settings” and tap “Autofill and passwords” from the left side.

• Step 2. Now, click “Google Password Manager” on the ensuing window, and choose “Settings” from the left side. Toggle off “Offer to save passwords” and “Sign in automatically” to disable Google Smart Lock.

Part 5. Forgot Google Smart Lock From Android Device? Recover Using Wondershare Dr.Fone

Disabling the Google Smart Lock can have a side effect, which is the danger of forgetting an important password. One of these important passwords is the screen lock on your Android device. These scenarios could involve forgetting the Xiaomi 14 Ultra device’s PIN, pattern, or password. This could be essential for unlocking the phone or accessing its functionalities. It can lead to being locked out of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra device, hindering normal operations.

In such instances, regaining access becomes crucial. Wondershare Dr.Fone offers a robust solution in these cases. This software specializes in unlocking Android devices when users forget their device passcodes. It offers a swift solution to eliminate Android lock screens within 5 minutes. If you own a Samsung or LG device, you can unlock it without data loss.

Notable Features of Wondershare Dr.Fone

1. This tool bypasses the Android FRP lock without necessitating a PIN or Google account.
2. It broadens its ability to unlock well-known Android brands like Samsung, Huawei, and LG.
3. Additionally, its intuitive interface guarantees that no technical know-how is required.

Step-by-Step Guide To Unlock Android Smartphone via Wondershare Dr.Fone

Dr.Fone makes the process of unlocking an Android device a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to recover an Android device using Wondershare Dr.Fone:

• Step 1. Unlocking an Android Device Using Wondershare Dr.Fone

To begin, install the most recent edition of Wondershare Dr.Fone and connect your Android device using a USB cable. Access the “Toolbox” menu and locate the “Screen Unlock” tool upon successful connection. Once opened, choose the “Android” option when prompted. Next, select “Unlock Android Screen” from the available options.

• Step 2. Device Brand Selection and Screen Unlock Initiation

Select your device brand and “100% Remove Screen Lock.” Selecting the Xiaomi 14 Ultra device brand initiates access to the designated mode. It will trigger Dr.Fone to commence unlocking the Android screen. Note that entering specific modes varies depending on the Xiaomi 14 Ultra device brand. Upon successfully unlocking your Android device screen, tap “Done.”

Tips: Forget your device password and can’t get access to it? No worries as Dr.Fone is here to help you. Download it and start a seamless unlock experience!

Conclusion

This comprehensive guide describes the significance of Google Smart Lock. It explains its features and various methods to disable it from Android devices and Chrome. Exploring scenarios of forgotten passcodes highlighted the critical need for a reliable solution. Wondershare Dr.Fone emerges as a savior in such situations. It offers a secure means to regain access when locked out of your device.

Unlock Xiaomi 14 Ultra Phone Password Without Factory Reset: Full Guide Here

In today’s fast-paced digital age, our smartphones are more than just communication devices; they are repositories of our personal and professional lives. However, there comes a time when we find ourselves locked out of our Xiaomi 14 Ultra phones , desperately trying to remember a password or PIN that seems to have slipped our minds. The thought of a factory reset, which wipes our valuable data clean, can be daunting.

But fear not! This comprehensive guide is here to rescue you from the perils of forgotten passwords without factory reset. So, if you’re in a bind and need to regain access to your device, read on for a full guide to know how to unlock Xiaomi 14 Ultra phone password without factory reset!

Method 1: Unlock Xiaomi 14 Ultra Phones Running Older Android OS (4.4 Or Below) With Google Security Questions

Up until Android version 4.4, you could lock your phone screen with a pattern. Google allowed you to unlock the phone by answering security questions in case you forgot the pattern. Since these may also be easily guessed by people who are in possession of your device illegally, Google deprecated this method after Android 4.4. However, the phones running Android 4.4 or lower are still allowed to be unlocked using this method. So, if you have an old Xiaomi 14 Ultra with Android 4.4 or earlier, here is how to unlock Xiaomi 14 Ultra phone password without factory reset:

Step 1: You may already have entered the incorrect pattern a few times. If so, simply tap the Forgot Pattern to start the process of unlocking your Xiaomi 14 Ultra phone screen. Else, deliberately enter incorrect pattern a few times till you see the Forgot Pattern option:

Step 2: Next, choose the option to reset the pattern by answering your Google credentials.

Step 3: Sign into the Google account that matches with the Google account on the phone.

Step 4: Lastly, create a new pattern to unlock your Xiaomi 14 Ultra phone.

Side Tip

Now that you have unlocked your Xiaomi 14 Ultra phone with Google security questions, we have a tip for you. For the safety and security of your data on your phone, it might be time to trade in the Xiaomi 14 Ultra device for a newer phone with the latest Android OS. Between Android 4.4 and the Android 12 prevalent today, there have been massive security updates and code improvements that you can benefit from. It makes sense given that our phones hold a substantially large part of our personal and professional lives these days. And we are not even talking about features that you may or may not need - we are talking only from a data security point of view. Of course, you will also benefit from the massive performance improvements that have taken place thanks to hardware and software improvements over the years.

Method 2: Unlock Your Xiaomi 14 Ultra Phone Using Wondershare Dr.Fone ( Easy & Fast)

Now, since the previous method of unlocking your Xiaomi 14 Ultra phone was deprecated after Android 4.4, what about the phones running newer versions? How to unlock a Xiaomi 14 Ultra phone with a newer Android version? There are still a few methods that are available to you, but the best way to unlock a Xiaomi 14 Ultra phone is to use this nifty little app called Wondershare Dr.Fone. And you will discover that there is nothing little about this app!

Dr.Fone is a collection of several modules unified in a single interface. Each of these modules is designed meticulously to serve a purpose for your device, such as unlocking your phone, repairing your phone, erasing data from your phone or wiping the phone securely, etc. With this approach, users are never encumbered with options. Instead, they can focus on every task in the simplest, easiest manner without worrying about doing something untoward because they could not understand the software. Dr.Fone is fast, intuitive and easy to use.

Step 1: Launch Dr.Fone on your computer. Select the Screen Unlock module.

Step 2: Click Unlock Android Screen.

Step 3: Select the first option – 100% Remove Screen Lock as Xiaomi 14 Ultra devices cannot be unlocked without data loss.

Step 4: Choose your phone brand carefully – Xiaomi 14 Ultra in this case.

Step 5: Complete the instructions to download the software to your phone.

Step 6: The software will start downloading, and if everything went smoothly you will see a screen to click Remove Now.

Step 7: When all is done, you will see the following:

Your Xiaomi 14 Ultra phone screen is now unlocked. Click the button below to unlock Xiaomi 14 Ultra phone password without factory reset now!

Method 3: Factory Reset Xiaomi 14 Ultra Phones (Wipes User Data)

There is a standard factory reset built into every Xiaomi 14 Ultra phone to allow users to erase the Xiaomi 14 Ultra device and start over fully. This option wipes all user data and resets the phone to how you received it in the box. Naturally, this is not a preferred way, as it requires the phone to be set up all over again and that takes time. Also, all data will need to be backed up beforehand in order to restore it again. Overall, this method consumes a lot of time.

Step 1: Go to Settings > Backup & Reset.

Step 2: Tap Factory Reset > Reset Phone.

Step 3: Tap Erase Everything.

Method 4: Use Google Find My Device To Unlock Xiaomi 14 Ultra Phones (Wipes User Data)

Google Find My Device is an online service by Google that is used to locate and track your Android devices. It works like how Apple’s Find My works for its range of hardware. Using Find My Device, you can play a sound on the Xiaomi 14 Ultra device to locate it in the house if you have misplaced it, lock the phone in case it is lost, and wipe the Xiaomi 14 Ultra device remotely.

Step 1: Go to https://accounts.google.com .

Step 2: Log in and go to Security > Your Devices:

Step 3: Click Find A Lost Device.

Step 4: Select the Android device you want to wipe carefully if you have a few:

Step 5: Click Erase Device and confirm.

Step 6: After the erasure, your device will need to be set up all over again.

Method 5: Request Service Provider To Unlock Your Xiaomi 14 Ultra Phone

If your Xiaomi 14 Ultra phone is tied to a service contract and you want to unlock your device to use it with other service providers, this method is for you. You can request your service provider to unlock your Xiaomi 14 Ultra phone provided their conditions are met. Usually, they will be happy to oblige if there are no dues and the service period is over.

Bonus Tip: If You Want To Disable Screen Lock

Sometimes, you may not need to secure your device at all. For example, if you have an old device that you want to use as a media player in your car or to give to children to play games, you may not want to password-protect the Xiaomi 14 Ultra device. This is how to disable screen lock on Android:

Step 1: Navigate to Settings > Security > Screen Lock.

Step 2: Enter the PIN or pattern.

Step 3: Choose None and confirm.

Conclusion

There are a handful of methods you can use to unlock a Xiaomi 14 Ultra phone in case you forget the password or PIN or pattern. Especially for the old pattern-based screen locks, it is easy to unlock the phone if you know the answers to the security questions in your Google account. However, to unlock Xiaomi 14 Ultra phone screen without password on newer Android versions, you need technical knowledge, or you can use third-party software such as Wondershare Dr.Fone. Using Dr.Fone Screen Unlock, you can unlock your phone quickly with no technical mumbo jumbo to confuse you. All you will get is a software that guides you every step of the way so you can unlock Xiaomi 14 Ultra phone easily.