Most of the time we use a passcode, pattern, or PIN as device security. But what if the device can be unlocked without any data loss?

One method involves the Android SDK via ADB, which requires a PC. The more convenient approach is using Android Recovery directly — that’s what we’ll do here.

Prerequisites:

  • Android device
  • Aroma File Manager
  • A custom recovery installed

Download Aroma File Manager here: [DOWNLOAD]

Steps:

  1. Turn off the device, then boot into recovery:

    • Press Volume Up + Power
    • If your device has a home button: Volume Up + Power + Home simultaneously

  2. Use Volume Up/Down to navigate, and the Home button or Power button to select.

  1. Select Install ZIP from SD Card and choose the Aroma File Manager ZIP.

  1. In Aroma File Manager, go to Settings, scroll to the bottom, and tap Automount all devices on start. Then exit.

  1. You now have access to system files from the root directory. Navigate to:

    Data > System

    Find the files gesture.key (for pattern lock) and password.key (for PIN/password lock).

NOTE: If you can’t find the system files, enable the Show Hidden Files option.

  1. Delete both files. Then exit Aroma, exit recovery, and reboot.

After rebooting, the lock screen may still appear, but the key files are gone. You can now enter any pattern, PIN, or password to unlock — or go to Settings > Security and you’ll find the security level has been set to None.

NOTE: This information is for educational purposes only. Accessing someone else’s data without permission is illegal.

That’s all for this article — more interesting stuff coming soon! ;-)