How to Unlock a Samsung Galaxy Phone (Screen Locks and Network Locks Explained)

If you’re trying to unlock a Samsung Galaxy phone, the first thing to understand is what kind of lock you’re dealing with. Many people search for "unlock Samsung phone" when they actually mean very different things: getting past a forgotten PIN, removing a fingerprint lock, or unlocking the phone to use a different network SIM. 

This guide explains all legitimate Samsung Galaxy phone unlock methods, covering both screen locks and network (SIM) locks. No matter is you have a model from the Samsung Galaxy A series phones range or any other, solutions covered in this guide work for all Samsung phones. Please note that this guide is for people who own the device or have permission to unlock it, including those dealing with second-hand phones, forgotten credentials, or contract restrictions in the UK. 

What Do You Mean by "Unlock a Samsung Galaxy Phone"? (Screen vs Network) 

On Samsung devices, unlocking can mean two completely different things, and confusing them is one of the main reasons people get stuck. 

Screen unlock (device access) 

This means getting past the lock screen so you can access the phone. Common lock types include: 

• PIN 
• Pattern 
• Password 
• Fingerprint 
• Face unlock 

Screen unlocking is about device security, not network compatibility. 

Network / SIM unlock (carrier lock) 

This means removing a carrier restriction so the phone can use SIM cards from other networks. For example: 

• Using a Samsung bought on Vodafone with an EE SIM 
• Taking a UK phone abroad and using a local SIM 

This guide only covers legal and ethical unlocking. You should never attempt to bypass security on a phone you don’t own or have permission to access. 

Samsung Galaxy Unlock Methods – Quick Comparison Table 

This table helps you quickly identify the correct method for your situation. 

Scenario	Lock type	Recommended method	Requirements	Data loss risk
Forgot PIN / pattern on your own Samsung	Screen	Restart → official reset tools → factory reset	Google/Samsung account	High (reset wipes local data)
Biometrics failing but you know the PIN	Screen	Use backup PIN/password	None	None
Want to use a different network SIM	Network	Request carrier unlock	IMEI + eligible contract	None
Bought a second-hand phone that’s network locked	Network	Original carrier unlock	IMEI + original owner	None
Completely locked out and want a fresh start	Screen	Factory reset via recovery	Original Google account (FRP)	High

How to Unlock a Samsung Galaxy Screen If You Still Know Your PIN or Password 

If you still remember your credentials, unlocking is straightforward. 

Standard unlock: PIN, pattern, password and biometrics 

You can unlock using: 

• Fingerprint 
• Face unlock 
• PIN, pattern, or password 

If biometrics fail, the phone will always fall back to your primary lock method. 

When the screen won’t respond or biometrics keep failing 

Try: 

• Restarting the phone 
• Removing thick or damaged screen protectors 
• Cleaning the fingerprint sensor 
• Unlocking with your PIN instead 

Temporary biometric failure is common after updates or if the sensor is obstructed. 

How to remove or change the screen lock from settings 

Once unlocked: 

• Open Settings 
• Go to Lock screen → Secure lock settings 
• Authenticate with your PIN/password 
• Change the lock type or remove it 

How to Unlock a Samsung Galaxy Phone When You Forgot the Screen Lock 

If you’ve forgotten everything, your options become more limited. 

Try basic fixes first 

• Restart the device 
• Try any remembered backup PINs 
• Attempt all enrolled biometrics 
• If none work, proceed to official recovery options. 

Use Google’s "Find My Device" to erase the phone (last resort) 

If Find My Device was enabled: 

• Sign in to your Google account on another device 
• Select the phone 
• Choose Erase device 

This removes the screen lock but wipes all local data. Cloud data remains safe. 

Use SmartThings Find (Samsung’s official tool) 

The latest Samsung Galaxy phones now use SmartThings Find for device management. 

• It can locate and remotely erase a device 
• It does not reliably unlock the phone without erasing it 
• Erase = lock removed, data wiped 

Factory reset from recovery mode 

If you’re fully locked out: 

• Power off the phone 
• Press and hold Volume Up + Power 
• Select Wipe data/factory reset 
• Confirm and reboot 

Factory Reset Protection (FRP) applies: After reset, you must sign in with the Google account previously used on the device. There is no legitimate bypass for FRP. 

Avoid third-party "unlock tools" claiming to remove Samsung locks without accounts. Many are scams or malware. 

How to Network Unlock (SIM Unlock) a Samsung Galaxy Phone 

Network unlocking is separate from screen unlocking and does not erase data. 

Check if your Samsung Galaxy is network locked 

You can: 

• Insert a SIM from a different network 
• Look for messages like "Network lock" or "SIM not supported"
• Check in Settings → Connections → Mobile networks 

How to get an official carrier unlock code in the UK 

Most UK networks allow unlocking once eligibility is met. You’ll usually need: 

• The phone’s IMEI 
• Contract paid off or minimum term completed 
• Account holder details 

Many UK carriers now unlock phones for free. 

How to enter a SIM unlock code on a Samsung phone 

• Insert a SIM from another network 
• Power on the phone 
• Enter the unlock code when prompted 
• Confirm 

Once unlocked, the phone works permanently on compatible networks. 

Why you should avoid unofficial IMEI unlock sites 

Risks include: 

• Scams 
• Invalid codes 
• IMEI blacklisting 
• Breaching network terms 

Always use your carrier or an authorised service. 

How to Unlock a Second-Hand or Used Samsung Galaxy Safely 

Second-hand phones require extra caution. 

Check for screen locks and accounts before buying 

Ask the seller to: 

• Unlock the phone 
• Remove all Google and Samsung accounts 
• Factory reset the device in front of you 

Handling a used Samsung that’s still network locked 

You may need: 

• The original carrier 
• The original owner’s cooperation 

Policies vary by network. 

Avoid Google-locked, Samsung-locked or blacklisted phones 

Warning signs include: 

• "This device is linked to another account"
• FRP prompts you can’t complete 
• Network block messages 

These devices may be unusable so check for these issues when purchasing. If you go for second-hand options, it is better to go for refurbished Samsung Galaxy phones from a trusted source like Box. This can make sure that you are safe. 

Data, Security and Privacy Considerations When Unlocking a Samsung Galaxy 

Why screen locks matter 

Locks protect: 

• Messages 
• Banking apps 
• Photos 
• Work data 

Remove them only if you understand the risks. 

Back up before unlocking or resetting 

Use: 

• Google backup 
• Samsung Cloud 
• Local PC backups 

This is essential before factory resets. 

Never share accounts or unlock codes 

Sharing credentials can expose: 

• Emails 
• Payment methods 
• Personal data 

Common Problems When Unlocking a Samsung Galaxy Phone (and Fixes) 

Phone still asks for account after reset (FRP) 

This is normal. Sign in with the original Google account. If forgotten, you must recover it through Google — there is no safe bypass. 

"Network unlock unsuccessful"

Check: 

• Correct IMEI 
• Correct unlock code 
• Phone is eligible and not blacklisted 

Biometrics not working after unlock 

• Re-enrol fingerprints and face data 
• Check screen protectors 
• Update software if available 

Final takeaway 

Unlocking a Samsung Galaxy phone is safe and straightforward when you choose the right method for the right lock. Screen locks protect your data, network locks protect contracts and confusing the two leads to frustration. 

If you own the device and follow official processes, you can unlock your Samsung Galaxy without risk, scams, or data loss surprises. If you are planning on buying a phone, it is better to check the Samsung phone deals on Box.co.uk rather than going for a second hand or refurbished phone. So check out the range for the best prices. 

FAQs: 

Can I unlock a Samsung Galaxy phone without losing data? 

Yes, if you know your screen lock or are only doing a network unlock. Forgotten screen locks usually require a reset. 

Can I unlock a Samsung phone without a PIN or Google account? 

Not legitimately. Official methods involve data wiping and account verification, not bypassing security. 

How do I know if my Samsung Galaxy is network locked? 

Insert another network’s SIM or check mobile network settings. 

Is it legal to unlock a Samsung Galaxy phone in the UK? 

Yes, for phones you own, once contractual obligations are met. 

Should I pay for an online unlocking service? 

Always try your carrier or Samsung first. Many third-party sites are unreliable.