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Phone hacked need advise and guidance

Hi
I know that this will sound like another hacked story but I know what to do.
My phone got hacked couple of months back.i didnt know it was untill the hacker started to leave clues. It was then that i started really payibg attention to everything going on. but keeping quiet abort it so that he or she thinks i didn't know
I know of 3 incidents that may have conpronised my security coupled by the fact that I did not practice password hygiene or unique ones for all accounts. I know that its totally my fault and i am not goings to blane Android os. So please dont think of this as one of tjose posts
What i now need is help in understanding what tondo next.
Little details on what happens, lets say i get search for some one on Facebook. The same is Charles smith, I Finish off my search and open Instagram boom i see a pictures where recommended shows a google search page where Charles is written and the Google auto complete is giving options .
Happened twice
I tumlr and I don't really post anything in fact My blog is totally blank. Suddenly i have people followings me and they tend of hame my nick name as their user id .the id displays my WhatsApp status updates.
These and just two examples i have more but i think everyone gets whats going on.
things i have done to prevent such occurences factory formatting the phones mac abd router. Gotten new routers and ready to flash a custom firmware for them.
Password changes .everything.wps2 aes wifi password with random numbers upper case lower case n symbols
Passwords are written on paper without a electronic backup and under lock and key.
I thought that maybe its a key logger but i took my moto x2 n moto e2 to the service center and got them to re load official software.
Two days later bam the same thing.
Any suggestion on where the weakness is ?
The problem is that I am kind of tired if thi
Sent from my XT1092 using XDA Forums

Check account sync settings if it is on more applications can use various private data.
Sent from my A0001 using XDA Free mobile app

i dont understand?
can u explain , i have sync on should I not have it
on different note does anyone suggest rooting and installing something that can isolate and restrict data from being accessed. now i know that exposed does that and marshmallow will work that out. but any other guidance ?

Did you use a virus or malware scanner?
Are there any apps you didn't install on your phone?

If i were you, i would start with doing the following steps by their exact order to get rid of the hacker and operate on a "safe" system.
1- Backup personal files to pc and deep scan them with virus scanner, make sure they're clean.
2- Unlock the bootloader of device and flash every image manually with fastboot from stock factory image.
3- After flashing the images, go to stock recovery and wipe data / factory reset and wipe cache for a complete, untouched system.
4- Change account passwords with stuff that are unrelated to you. I mean if you made a google search for firedance, don't include dance or fire in any your passwords.
* also change the " forgot my password " questions and their answers.
5- Once you boot the system, download any ota packages from the manufacturer to be sure you'd be on a safer and patched software for security.
For future securtity, be sure to check apps permissions before installing anything from google play or external places. Don't root your device and don't enable USB Debugging in developer options. Hope it helps.

Semseddin said:
If i were you, i would start with doing the following steps by their exact order to get rid of the hacker and operate on a "safe" system.
1- Backup personal files to pc and deep scan them with virus scanner, make sure they're clean.
2- Unlock the bootloader of device and flash every image manually with fastboot from stock factory image.
3- After flashing the images, go to stock recovery and wipe data / factory reset and wipe cache for a complete, untouched system.
4- Change account passwords with stuff that are unrelated to you. I mean if you made a google search for firedance, don't include dance or fire in any your passwords.
* also change the " forgot my password " questions and their answers.
5- Once you boot the system, download any ota packages from the manufacturer to be sure you'd be on a safer and patched software for security.
For future securtity, be sure to check apps permissions before installing anything from google play or external places. Don't root your device and don't enable USB Debugging in developer options. Hope it helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't Root your device? Don't check USB debugging? Seriously? That is your answer? Wow, do you work for Verizon or AT&T by some chance? Sorry, but with Root and some nicely placed Xposed modules, this persons phone or tablet would be more safe than anything g Verizon or AT &THE could conjure up. You are a dope! Lol! Seriously, go away. Bother another community. ?
Sent from my SM-N910V using Tapatalk

Jaytronics said:
Don't Root your device? Don't check USB debugging? Seriously? That is your answer? Wow, do you work for Verizon or AT&T by some chance? Sorry, but with Root and some nicely placed Xposed modules, this persons phone or tablet would be more safe than anything g Verizon or AT &THE could conjure up. You are a dope! Lol! Seriously, go away. Bother another community. ?
Sent from my SM-N910V using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pardon me but where does that come from ? Made me laugh. Since this is security forum, the first priority is security not your "nicely put xposed modules whatever that means". It is said many times by security experts rooting an android device removes a big portion of layer of security. I unfortunately don't work for AT&T or Verizon but i wish i worked for them for a nice salary.
This one is coming from the recognized developer and moderator of XDA Android Security forum. Someone who have exploited devices and found vulrenabiliies that you can't even dream of. Lets say i am a "dope" and you're the smart guy. Are jcase, steve kondik dopes as well ?
http://securitywatch.pcmag.com/secu...-have-android-settings-from-a-security-expert
http://www.dailytech.com/CyanogenMod+Creator+Tells+Android+Users+to+Rethink+Rooting/article33058.htm ( yeah, even steve kondik doesn't approve rooting for general users.
https://blog.kaspersky.com/rooting-and-jailbreaking/1979/ " Kasperksky a security platform well known for years are also against rooting.
Think again if you can who is the dope, now, go bother in your nicely put xposed modules forums for the sake of security. :good:

Semseddin said:
Pardon me but where does that come from ? Made me laugh. Since this is security forum, the first priority is security not your "nicely put xposed modules whatever that means". It is said many times by security experts rooting an android device removes a big portion of layer of security. I unfortunately don't work for AT&T or Verizon but i wish i worked for them for a nice salary.
This one is coming from the recognized developer and moderator of XDA Android Security forum. Someone who have exploited devices and found vulrenabiliies that you can't even dream of. Lets say i am a "dope" and you're the smart guy. Are jcase, steve kondik dopes as well ?
http://securitywatch.pcmag.com/secu...-have-android-settings-from-a-security-expert
http://www.dailytech.com/CyanogenMod+Creator+Tells+Android+Users+to+Rethink+Rooting/article33058.htm ( yeah, even steve kondik doesn't approve rooting for general users.
https://blog.kaspersky.com/rooting-and-jailbreaking/1979/ " Kasperksky a security platform well known for years are also against rooting.
Think again if you can who is the dope, now, go bother in your nicely put xposed modules forums for the sake of security. :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For a dope, I suppose that Root is a security risk. But, just because a device is not Rooted, does not mean it is secure by any stretch of the imagination. Truthfully, they are more unsecured if locked out from the user. That is, if the person is not a dope. What I am saying is that your advice, for the OP to take every update and not Root, was not really that helpful. If the OP installed an app that was a risk, then all the updates and non Root, will not help them. Now, if you were to show them, that if they were to Root, and use certain apps and modules on their device. Then they could keep a better eye out for potential problems. But, even if they did as I just said. If the OP is being a dope, and installing apps that, let's say, they obtained from a torrent site. Then, well, dope would be a fitting title for them as well.
And, if those recognized developers stated that Root was not good at all. Then yes, dope would be a fitting application of the word. Root is only bad for those that are dopes.
I believe that you inadvertently called the OP a dope. You did not help them all that well. What you did was help them to get rid of the problem temporarily. Do we know who apps are on their device? It would be a good idea to know these things. Also, where did they get these apps from? Kind of a big deal there.
But, if you were wondering what it is that I am talking about in regards to xposed. Look it up.
http://repo.xposed.info/module/de.robv.android.xposed.installer
I suggest the OP do the same. As well as anyone else who is having g issues. Now, knowing about xposed and the modules that can accompany it. Will not fully protect anyone from blatant stupidity. Read, read, read. And practice safe device use. There are so many avenues to protecting g ones self. But a big one that anyone can do. Don't download from shady places. Though, it is even very possible to get in trouble from apps from the Play store. Knowing what apps are asking for what permissions is important. What bothered me about your post is that you in the same post, stated for them to unlock the bootloader and then, to not root. Verizon and AT&T are advocates of the no Root behavior. And that sickens me. As well as many others. Instead of helping g people to see the dangers. They are told to do the most simplest of tasks, not to Root. And that they would be fine. Absolutely and completely false and misleading. Now, and again, for a dope. I suppose this would be fine. Though, it is not helpful. Education into matters are. One needs to seek out the underlying issue first. Then attempt to educate. As far as calling you a dope, I do humbly apologize for my Choi e of words. You did not deserve that. It would have been just fine for me to build onto what you suggested. Which was good advice. So, I am sorry. And yes, I am very much a dope at times .
Sent from my SM-N910V using Tapatalk

Jaytronics said:
For a dope, I suppose that Root is a security risk. But, just because a device is not Rooted, does not mean it is secure by any stretch of the imagination. Truthfully, they are more unsecured if locked out from the user. That is, if the person is not a dope. What I am saying is that your advice, for the OP to take every update and not Root, was not really that helpful. If the OP installed an app that was a risk, then all the updates and non Root, will not help them. Now, if you were to show them, that if they were to Root, and use certain apps and modules on their device. Then they could keep a better eye out for potential problems. But, even if they did as I just said. If the OP is being a dope, and installing apps that, let's say, they obtained from a torrent site. Then, well, dope would be a fitting title for them as well.
And, if those recognized developers stated that Root was not good at all. Then yes, dope would be a fitting application of the word. Root is only bad for those that are dopes.
I believe that you inadvertently called the OP a dope. You did not help them all that well. What you did was help them to get rid of the problem temporarily. Do we know who apps are on their device? It would be a good idea to know these things. Also, where did they get these apps from? Kind of a big deal there.
But, if you were wondering what it is that I am talking about in regards to xposed. Look it up.
http://repo.xposed.info/module/de.robv.android.xposed.installer
I suggest the OP do the same. As well as anyone else who is having g issues. Now, knowing about xposed and the modules that can accompany it. Will not fully protect anyone from blatant stupidity. Read, read, read. And practice safe device use. There are so many avenues to protecting g ones self. But a big one that anyone can do. Don't download from shady places. Though, it is even very possible to get in trouble from apps from the Play store. Knowing what apps are asking for what permissions is important. What bothered me about your post is that you in the same post, stated for them to unlock the bootloader and then, to not root. Verizon and AT&T are advocates of the no Root behavior. And that sickens me. As well as many others. Instead of helping g people to see the dangers. They are told to do the most simplest of tasks, not to Root. And that they would be fine. Absolutely and completely false and misleading. Now, and again, for a dope. I suppose this would be fine. Though, it is not helpful. Education into matters are. One needs to seek out the underlying issue first. Then attempt to educate. As far as calling you a dope, I do humbly apologize for my Choi e of words. You did not deserve that. It would have been just fine for me to build onto what you suggested. Which was good advice. So, I am sorry. And yes, I am very much a dope at times .
Sent from my SM-N910V using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Humble apology accepted.
You may not like AT&T and Verizon for their tight stance against rooting.I don't like that as well. They're filling their devices with their bloatware and excluding some very useful features from their customers like hotspot for free. However, Anyone who owns an operator variant of a specific device have already signed a contract with his operator already accepted their terms and that's why they get their bloated and controlled devices for cheaper prices in long term instead of paying full in cash. That said, i see nothing wrong with AT&T or Verizon's policy of keeping their devices locked to death since rooting would take a stake from their business and that was not their agreement with their customers. This is not the subject of this thread for sure. Should add, i see nothing wrong if a contracted owner a device wants to take full potencial out of it by rooting since it is the only way for them to get rid of bs in their devices. This is another discussion, not related to this thread.
I will use the word " regular user " instead of "dope" since nobody have to be knowledgeful about android security. Being someone without a clue of android security wouldn't make them a "dope". I currently sport a Moto Maxx, a bootloader unlockable variant of Verizon Droid Turbo sold in Brazil. I paid about 150$ more just to be free of Verizon Bloatware for the exact same hardware. I could have paid 150$ less and bought a Verizon Droid Turbo but i didn't just because i knew i would have Verizons' bs running in my phone every second. There used to be a time for me when rooting was a must with android because i used to own devices bloated with Motoblur, having low amount of ram and storage as well as unavailbility of disabling/deleting of unwanted apps. Now, i have 3gb of ram and 64gb storage with near Vanilla Android experience with my phone. I asked myself, what the heck do i need rooting for ? The answer was easy : nothing.
Lets say, android is an apartment, the root is the key to its door, xposed is the "watchdog" and hacker is the "thief". Would you keep the door unlocked and rely on a dog for its security ? I personally wouldn't do that cause the dogs can be fooled easily by a piece of meat and most importantly they have no responsibility at all. After all, It is just a dog serving for free without any responsibility. I couldn't ask for insurance as well cause i was the one who kept the door unlocked. I am also aware that any door can be opened without a key and the dog can be bypassed easily and the hacker can get whatever he wants. Things will happen if they're destined to be happen, we can't avoid some. Still, it is always our responsibility to keep the door locked in the first place and take counter measurements against. That was what i was pointing in my post.
Disabling USB debugging is the first thing one should do if there're concerns about security and this is not coming from a "dope" but security experts of android. :good:

Semseddin said:
Lets say, android is an apartment, the root is the key to its door, xposed is the "watchdog" and hacker is the "thief". Would you keep the door unlocked and rely on a dog for its security ? I personally wouldn't do that cause the dogs can be fooled easily by a piece of meat and most importantly they have no responsibility at all. After all, It is just a dog serving for free without any responsibility. I couldn't ask for insurance as well cause i was the one who kept the door unlocked. I am also aware that any door can be opened without a key and the dog can be bypassed easily and the hacker can get whatever he wants. Things will happen if they're destined to be happen, we can't avoid some. Still, it is always our responsibility to keep the door locked in the first place and take counter measurements against. That was what i was pointing in my post.
Disabling USB debugging is the first thing one should do if there're concerns about security and this is not coming from a "dope" but security experts of android. :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To show how ridiculously and persistently wrong you are, I am going to use your above example. If root is your key, then what you are doing is giving that key to Google and device manufacturer, while throwing your own copy away. In your own apartment, you are only allowed to go where google and verizon let you. This makes no sense whatsoever, unless the apartment owner is a real dope (no personal offence meant).
Disabling usb debugging also sounds like an aria from the same opera. If the device is on your person, this provides no additional security at all, as usb debugging is only relevant when your phone is connected to computer. If someone physically takes your device, it would take 10 seconds to enable debugging.
Root provides you an opportunity to control your device and restrict system apps, thereby reducing possibilities for hackers to take over your phone... As I have already mentioned before, every operating system provides root access to users. The only reason it is not done on smart phones is becase manufacturers, carriers and OS providers want to turn users into walking advertising beacon-dopes. Again, no offence meant...

optimumpro said:
To show how ridiculously and persistently wrong you are, I am going to use your above example. If root is your key, then what you are doing is giving that key to Google and device manufacturer, while throwing your own copy away. In your own apartment, you are only allowed to go where google and verizon let you. This makes no sense whatsoever, unless the apartment owner is a real dope (no personal offence meant).
Disabling usb debugging also sounds like an aria from the same opera. If the device is on your person, this provides no additional security at all, as usb debugging is only relevant when your phone is connected to computer. If someone physically takes your device, it would take 10 seconds to enable debugging.
Root provides you an opportunity to control your device and restrict system apps, thereby reducing possibilities for hackers to take over your phone... As I have already mentioned before, every operating system provides root access to users. The only reason it is not done on smart phones is becase manufacturers, carriers and OS providers want to turn users into walking advertising beacon-dopes. Again, no offence meant...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I see your point, respect it but disagree. Your example doesn't really work with my logic since you're putting players like Google/Verizon in the same league with an hacker. Yes, they for sure have control over their software since they're the one who created Android and offered the hardware along with an oem in the first place. These big companies are not like 3rd party devs who are irresponsible for any their actions.. If you happen to have sensetive privacy trust issues with Google, leave any android device out, you wouldn't even use google search in your pc.
A hacker having pyshical access to a device who would enable USB debugging in 5 seconds. is this what we're really talking about ? Anyone who have a device in hand doesn't need to be a hacker to get data from it. Have a coffee with the target sitting next to to him, memorize his passcode Done. Another way is to flash twrp and give some adb shell commands to bypass any lockscreen code. Done. USB debugging ON help with apk rooters and computer based root exploits as well.They rely on usb debugging to be on. You're hacked in no time.
I just can't trust any 3rd party dev more than my device manufacturer / operating system provider and network provider. I think the same for you like you're persistently and ridiciolusly wrong by giving too much credit to some unknown sources instead of those who have an actual business address. :good:

Just kiss each other already or dont say anything.
This thread is made by someone who needs help and you two both are taking it off topic instead of helping him. Now out of respect for that user, stop this endless conversation.

Semseddin said:
I see your point, respect it but disagree. Your example doesn't really work with my logic since you're putting players like Google/Verizon in the same league with an hacker. Yes, they for sure have control over their software since they're the one who created Android and offered the hardware along with an oem in the first place. These big companies are not like 3rd party devs who are irresponsible for any their actions.. If you happen to have sensetive privacy trust issues with Google, leave any android device out, you wouldn't even use google search in your pc.
A hacker having pyshical access to a device who would enable USB debugging in 5 seconds. is this what we're really talking about ? Anyone who have a device in hand doesn't need to be a hacker to get data from it. Have a coffee with the target sitting next to to him, memorize his passcode Done. Another way is to flash twrp and give some adb shell commands to bypass any lockscreen code. Done. USB debugging ON help with apk rooters and computer based root exploits as well.They rely on usb debugging to be on. You're hacked in no time.
I just can't trust any 3rd party dev more than my device manufacturer / operating system provider and network provider. I think the same for you like you're persistently and ridiciolusly wrong by giving too much credit to some unknown sources instead of those who have an actual business address. :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is not about respect, disrespect or disagreements. The facts (not opinions) remain: every operating system on Earth provides root or administrative privileges to users. However, it is not given to the same user when he turns to a smartphone. There is no security reason whatsoever why a user has root on computer and no root on a smartphone.
As I have already said, there are plenty of non-security reasons for the above: the main one being to prevent the user from removing advertising junk and spying malware inserted there by manufacturers, carriers and software providers. Kids love it (above three) and Mother (NSA) approves...
Every argument against root invalidates itself when applied to computer OS: remember the user is the same.
@its the peanut
Please stop patronizing. This is a security discussion thread and we discuss security, which is beneficial to the poor guy, the OP... :silly:

Semseddin, what do you do to stop fastboot?
rooting and knowledge go hand in hand, the OP states device is rooted, but sounds like hasn't got the interest to know what's behind the process. that is why we don't have the slightest piece of evidence that his device has been compromised. just the users opinion that it has.
having su and adb debugging at least allows them to logcat.

[Completed] Locked relative out of phone :(

Hey all, firstly, sorry this is a rushed post but I'm hoping I can get some advice and pointed in the right direction. I'll start by saying I'm fairly experienced in tech and with Android.
So, a family member was having problem with her new android phone (Samsung J ... 6, 5 or something, I can find out) so I said I'd just do a factory reset - there was nothing on there she was worried about losing).
Long story short, this new security feature (if stolen) where you can't just factory reset has completely screwed me over. They are not tech orientated and can not remember the original google login they made, and barely half of the security questions to remember the original google account. I just want to cry. What was a basic factory reset has turned out to looking like I've 'bricked' their phone. I obviously haven't but it doesn't look good. I've read there's an APK to skip this google sign in step, and I feel competent to do it, but I feel like things can only get worse by this point. There is still hope to reset the google account, but what is your experience using this skip sign in APK. It sounds too easy, for would be thieves, and I don't trust it much. I'm thinking this has gone far enough, I should just tell her to take it back to the provider (EE UK) She's only had it a month. Any idea if they can do this in store or it'll be sent off. Any other words of advice with this skip sign in APK; pulling hair out, thanks
EDIT: Am I right in thinking I can't contact google any further to get the original account back?

whatsoup said:
Hey all, firstly, sorry this is a rushed post but I'm hoping I can get some advice and pointed in the right direction. I'll start by saying I'm fairly experienced in tech and with Android.
So, a family member was having problem with her new android phone (Samsung J ... 6, 5 or something, I can find out) so I said I'd just do a factory reset - there was nothing on there she was worried about losing).
Long story short, this new security feature (if stolen) where you can't just factory reset has completely screwed me over. They are not tech orientated and can not remember the original google login they made, and barely half of the security questions to remember the original google account. I just want to cry. What was a basic factory reset has turned out to looking like I've 'bricked' their phone. I obviously haven't but it doesn't look good. I've read there's an APK to skip this google sign in step, and I feel competent to do it, but I feel like things can only get worse by this point. There is still hope to reset the google account, but what is your experience using this skip sign in APK. It sounds too easy, for would be thieves, and I don't trust it much. I'm thinking this has gone far enough, I should just tell her to take it back to the provider (EE UK) She's only had it a month. Any idea if they can do this in store or it'll be sent off. Any other words of advice with this skip sign in APK; pulling hair out, thanks
EDIT: Am I right in thinking I can't contact google any further to get the original account back?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Greetings!
Thank you for using XDA Assist.
Having the correct phone model would be helpful here because there are different methods available for fixing this issue. Google will be of no help whatsoever. You can try to bring the device to an authorized Samsung repair center, if available. Also I do recommend bringing it back to the original place of purchase.
Good luck!

Thanks for your reply and sorry for mine being so slow. I guess I'm on my own with this one, but if you can point me to the most favoured guide for a Samsung J36 (I think that is J3 (6) I would appreciate it.
The APK method seems seems easy enough but I'm really worried it has been patched out, seeing as it's a relatively new phone. The last thing I want to do is make it worse. Could you advise how safe the APK method is? usual disclaimers aside
I went into EE today and they weren't much help; they said there's not much they can do, which I don't believe, if we can prove the phone is from them, only a month ago. Thanks for your help. Stress :S

whatsoup said:
Thanks for your reply and sorry for mine being so slow. I guess I'm on my own with this one, but if you can point me to the most favoured guide for a Samsung J36 (I think that is J3 (6) I would appreciate it.
The APK method seems seems easy enough but I'm really worried it has been patched out, seeing as it's a relatively new phone. The last thing I want to do is make it worse. Could you advise how safe the APK method is? usual disclaimers aside
I went into EE today and they weren't much help; they said there's not much they can do, which I don't believe, if we can prove the phone is from them, only a month ago. Thanks for your help. Stress :S
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't seen one for the J3 specifically, as there isn't a specific forum for that model on XDA. May I recommend doing a search to see what turns up. I know that official Samsung repair centers can fix this problem.

Will do, thanks. I wanted to avoid paying for a fix but if it keeps things safe, so be it. I'd have to travel so hopefully they'd do it on the spot. ty

Help with Data Recovery

Hi guys,
I'm a new user, I have a problem to which, when talking to a friend, he recommended me to register here and ask about my issue, as there seems to be plenty Android Experts that may be able to provide me a straight answer or give me hope.
My dad just passed away, I still can't believe it happened, given the fact that he wasn't too old... but going back on topic, his phone is a Redmi Note 4 that I ordered him around two years ago, he lived abroad and was a regular user, he never messed up with settings or anything, just stock MIUI with the updates that were sent as far as he mentioned me last time we could speak about his phone. What I would like to know is if it would be possible to recover his phone data, what me and my sisters care for the most are his pictures, we want to recover them and save them in a place where we have access to.
However, while searching on many websites, there are many Android Data Recovery software but they always request me to enable the USB debugging, but it is impossible for me, as the phone has a Pattern/Fingerprint lock.
Also, found several software that claim to remove your screen lock without deleting the device contents but when I'm going to the unlock step, there is a prompt that I have to confirm to delete all the information. And I've downloaded more than five software for each, the last one I downloaded is called Dr. Fone from Wondershare; I sent an email to them asking if I have to purchase the product to get that feature but I have not received any reply yet.
Basically, the phone is locked without USB Debugging, and I cannot access the files in the phone which is all we want.
Does anyone knows of a way to unlock it?
I'd even pay if it is necessary, I just haven't purchased the software mentioned above because I can't find if they are real or are just scam, there isn't like much information about them. Or has anyone purchased or successfully used any of those softwares?
The model is a Redmi Note 4 I believe it was the Global Version, with MIUI 8.1, but I'm not sure.
I'm getting a bit frustrated, maybe my dad doesn't want us to unlock his phone and that is why I cannot find a way, but I would like to know if it is possible.
I really appreciate your time, I'm sorry for the long text, if there is anything that maybe I'm missing, please let me know.
Thanks in advance
Javier

Thjavo said:
Hi guys,
I'm a new user, I have a problem to which, when talking to a friend, he recommended me to register here and ask about my issue, as there seems to be plenty Android Experts that may be able to provide me a straight answer or give me hope.
My dad just passed away, I still can't believe it happened, given the fact that he wasn't too old... but going back on topic, his phone is a Redmi Note 4 that I ordered him around two years ago, he lived abroad and was a regular user, he never messed up with settings or anything, just stock MIUI with the updates that were sent as far as he mentioned me last time we could speak about his phone. What I would like to know is if it would be possible to recover his phone data, what me and my sisters care for the most are his pictures, we want to recover them and save them in a place where we have access to.
However, while searching on many websites, there are many Android Data Recovery software but they always request me to enable the USB debugging, but it is impossible for me, as the phone has a Pattern/Fingerprint lock.
Also, found several software that claim to remove your screen lock without deleting the device contents but when I'm going to the unlock step, there is a prompt that I have to confirm to delete all the information. And I've downloaded more than five software for each, the last one I downloaded is called Dr. Fone from Wondershare; I sent an email to them asking if I have to purchase the product to get that feature but I have not received any reply yet.
Basically, the phone is locked without USB Debugging, and I cannot access the files in the phone which is all we want.
Does anyone knows of a way to unlock it?
I'd even pay if it is necessary, I just haven't purchased the software mentioned above because I can't find if they are real or are just scam, there isn't like much information about them. Or has anyone purchased or successfully used any of those softwares?
The model is a Redmi Note 4 I believe it was the Global Version, with MIUI 8.1, but I'm not sure.
I'm getting a bit frustrated, maybe my dad doesn't want us to unlock his phone and that is why I cannot find a way, but I would like to know if it is possible.
I really appreciate your time, I'm sorry for the long text, if there is anything that maybe I'm missing, please let me know.
Thanks in advance
Javier
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I understand your situation, I lost my father a few years ago. It is possible to recover the data from your dad's phone, but, unfortunately, it is against the forum rules here to help with cracking a phone to retrieve data that does not belong to you. The reason why it is against the rules, even in your unfortunate situation, is because anything we tell you could be seen and used by other people to break into devices that do not belong to them.
Another factor is, we don't know if what you tell us is actually true or not. That does not mean that you are deceiving us, it just means we have no way of knowing and we can't just take your word for it.
These reasons make it unacceptable for anyone in this forum to help you. It's all about security and maintaining security, regardless of the situation, and it is somewhat a legal issue. Helping crack the device could be a liability against XDA or the members helping you. A member or user can choose to compromise their own security but we can't help with devices that are not theirs.
It is best if you didn't ask this question here and it is pointless for you to try making another thread about this issue with different wording because all of your threads and posts can be viewed from your user profile page. It is also pointless to try making another username to post this issue again with different wording because the moderators and Admin can see that it is still you with a different name.
I know it sucks, but anyone that helps you will be violating the forum rules. I'm not saying that you can't get this done, I'm just saying no one HERE can legitimately help you. I would try linking you to other places that can help you, but even that might be pushing the rules a bit.
Sent from my SM-S767VL using Tapatalk

each device has a google account (and maybe a xiaomi account). you can check from PC if there is the google password saved in browser. if not, each google account has a fallback email address where you may be able to request a (google) password reset. from google you can lock the phone with temporary password, then unlock the screen with temporary password. if you recently changed the google password before, you need to wait at least 72 hours with internet connection. besides this you can check photos.google.com or drive.google.com for any backups.
without knowing the google account, you still can try to bruteforce the pattern with Teensy or Hak5 USB Rubber Ducky microcontroller connected via USB OTG adapter. if the phone does not support USB OTG there are more expensive solutions like XPIN Clip (this is just a common hint, the important part is the code for microcontroller which i don't share here). also there might be a chance to flash TWRP custom recovery in EDL Mode without unlocking the bootloader or factory reset via exploit, and TWRP might be able to decrypt userdata partition with default_password

deleted

Friend may be screwed - bypass Factory Reset Protection ( FRP ) on Pixel 3

One of my coworkers who is a nice guy, and far too naive and trusting to be using craigslist, bought a Pixel 3. His coming from an iPhone 5 and I guess the sim cards are different sizes. He took the sellers word for it and bought the phone. When he got home and tried setting it up while on wi-fi, it said that the phone was factory reset and needed to be signed in by the previous user. Naturally the guy has gone dark and is no longer responding to my coworker. After calling Google and having them turn him down for assistance, he prayed on it (I'm not even joking) and he remembered I routinely tinker with my phones.
I know it sounds sketchy whenever anyone asks how to bypass protections and I fully understand not wanting to help because others may see it. I have done searches on how to do this, but I am not having much luck. I do not know what version of Android this phone has on it, but I would assume Pie. I have't run stock for any longer than it takes to unlock the bootloader. I will provide any information I can. While I am not very active on the forum, I am a relatively long time member with no history of shady crap.
Any help or guidance would be very much appreciated!

It'll make a great paperweight at this point. The FRP is on there for a reason. Regardless weather he stole it, the seller stole it or you stole it, it still makes a great paperweight.

FilthyFord said:
It'll make a great paperweight at this point. The FRP is on there for a reason. Regardless weather he stole it, the seller stole it or you stole it, it still makes a great paperweight.
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I was afraid of that.

He should turn in to police, with a description and whatever contact information he had for seller. Definitely stolen property.

It may not be stolen if FRP is tripped. That will happen if you reset the phone and don't remove the Google account first. Of course seller going dark is a big clue that it may be stolen.

MOD ACTION:
Thread closed.
Asking for help and helping to bypass security is not encouraged on XDA, especially since there is no way to ascertain if the request is genuine or not.

s960 usqu9fue1 FRP PLZ HELP

I've tried it all making my own combo rom downloading's from multiple sources multiple odin versions nothing is working it is literally costing me money and sleep i need this phone to work asap i cant find the right forum or am to stupid to know what the right one is would really really appreciate an answer asap on this like my whole show is depending on it and I'm failing badly id love a step by step for dummies concerning frp removal or bypass for this modal its s9 Verizon on 10 usqu9fue1 please thankyou

To disable / remove FRP lock you
either
delete your Google account on phone
or
do a Factory Reset

jwoegerbauer said:
To disable / remove FRP lock you
either
delete your Google account on phone
or
do a Factory Reset
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Factory reset doesn't remove FRP lock, that actually puts the device in a state of being FRP locked if FRP/Find My Device hasn't been disabled BEFORE doing the factory reset.

Droidriven said:
Factory reset doesn't remove FRP lock, that actually puts the device in a state of being FRP locked if FRP/Find My Device hasn't been disabled BEFORE doing the factory reset.
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Wtfanyone that actually has a clue care to help me out....wow just....wow

jwoegerbauer said:
To disable / remove FRP lock you
either
delete your Google account on phone
or
do a Factory Reset
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No why are u answering questions fr like....wtf

Jessicad89 said:
Wtfanyone that actually has a clue care to help me out....wow just....wow
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Not all devices are equal, therefore, the fix to this varies from one device to the next. Also, giving you the solution also makes the solution available to people that are trying to find a way to remove FRP lock from devices that are not rightfully theirs, such as stolen devices. To avoid potentially aiding someone in gaining access to devices and personal data that is not theirs, we typically don't answer. We also don't know if the device you are trying to access is actually yours, I mean, it isn't like we can take your word for it because you could be lying to us and we wouldn't know, not that you are, just saying that it is an uncertain scenario. It isn't specifically against the forum rules but its kind of an unspoken rule because it is a grey area that is best to stay out of.

Droidriven said:
Not all devices are equal, therefore, the fix to this varies from one device to the next. Also, giving you the solution also makes the solution available to people that are trying to find a way to remove FRP lock from devices that are not rightfully theirs, such as stolen devices. To avoid potentially aiding someone in gaining access to devices and personal data that is not theirs, we typically don't answer. We also don't know if the device you are trying to access is actually yours, I mean, it isn't like we can take your word for it because you could be lying to us and we wouldn't know, not that you are, just saying that it is an uncertain scenario. It isn't specifically against the forum rules but its kind of an unspoken rule because it is a grey area that is best to stay out of.
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that is an asinine approach and a terrible mentality why wuld you even take the time to tell me that load of hogwash, is isnt my fault thaat production companies are struggling ith security and have terrible answers i provide the information needed to identify the correct procedure u know...the modal number build ect. i am somewhat appalled by this response as it has wasted both of our time, i live in America where your innocent till proven guilty not assumed potentially guilty at all times i will find an answer regardless of your counterproductive rathole ideology concerning information. heres whos fault it is if a device is stolen...the owners security is my responsibility concerning my things and that goes across the board worldwide. but i do appreciate well nothing about what you've said here. quite the opposite google its he evil empire and the "solution" of frp is absolutely a wash but thanks anyways

Wondering why you not simply do a Google search for it, if the answer given here isn't what you expected to be, instead of ranting around here?
BTW:
The Factory Reset Protection (FRP) is regulated in the US via the Smartphone Theft Prevention Act of 2015. The Act requires device manufacturers to feature a so-called "kill switch". The purpose of the kill switch was to discourage smartphone theft by dramatically reducing resale value of stolen devices.

Jessicad89 said:
that is an asinine approach and a terrible mentality why wuld you even take the time to tell me that load of hogwash, is isnt my fault thaat production companies are struggling ith security and have terrible answers i provide the information needed to identify the correct procedure u know...the modal number build ect. i am somewhat appalled by this response as it has wasted both of our time, i live in America where your innocent till proven guilty not assumed potentially guilty at all times i will find an answer regardless of your counterproductive rathole ideology concerning information. heres whos fault it is if a device is stolen...the owners security is my responsibility concerning my things and that goes across the board worldwide. but i do appreciate well nothing about what you've said here. quite the opposite google its he evil empire and the "solution" of frp is absolutely a wash but thanks anyways
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Just because it isn't the reply that you wanted, does not make it hogwash. If you can't understand the logic of what I said, that's your failing, not mine. I don't care what you appreciate or don't, that has nothing to do with anything. Thinking like that only makes you the one with the personal problem, not us. FRP exists for a very good reason, one that is understandably inconvenient for you in the current circumstances. It has nothing to do with guilt, no one labeled you or assumed you to be guilty, don't take it personal and drop the attitude.
But, hey, nevermind the fact that FRP exists for a reason, let's just ignore that just for you since it is you and you are so special that we should help you while at the same time making it easier for actual thieves to be able to use and resale devices that they've stolen, let's enable criminal activity just to help you since you're so special, right? Get real!

Droidriven said:
Just because it isn't the reply that you wanted, does not make it hogwash. If you can't understand the logic of what I said, that's your failing, not mine. I don't care what you appreciate or don't, that has nothing to do with anything. Thinking like that only makes you the one with the personal problem, not us. FRP exists for a very good reason, one that is understandably inconvenient for you in the current circumstances. It has nothing to do with guilt, no one labeled you or assumed you to be guilty, don't take it personal and drop the attitude.
But, hey, nevermind the fact that FRP exists for a reason, let's just ignore that just for you since it is you and you are so special that we should help you while at the same time making it easier for actual thieves to be able to use and resale devices that they've stolen, let's enable criminal activity just to help you since you're so special, right? Get real!
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i care so little about what you have to say i didn't even read that dribble and will continue that policy throughout our relationship ill get it either way thought i would give xda a shot if your representative of the body of knowledge and attitude here it as a mistake to be certain

Jessicad89 said:
i care so little about what you have to say i didn't even read that dribble and will continue that policy throughout our relationship ill get it either way thought i would give xda a shot if your representative of the body of knowledge and attitude here it as a mistake to be certain
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Do you think your opinion matters to anyone here? Do you think your attitude makes you superior somehow? It actually achieves quite the opposite, but please, continue proving me right, I know you've got more big talk in there somewhere because that is all you have, which is nothing.