Many users wonder if they can bypass a lock screen without a password, but the reality is that unlocking a phone with emergency call only works on very old Android devices.
Before attempting to unlock a phone using the emergency call feature, it is essential to note that this method is only applicable to Android 5 (Lollipop) or earlier versions, and users must have access to the lock screen and be able to use the Emergency Call feature.
A warning has been issued that the emergency-call hack can crash the UI and may cause loss of unsaved data; it does not work on newer Android versions or iPhones.
To attempt the emergency-call bypass on supported Android devices, users can follow specific steps. The first method involves using the emergency-call bypass. This is done by tapping the Emergency Call button on the lock screen to open the dialer, then typing ********** (ten asterisks) into the dialer field. The asterisks should be copied and pasted repeatedly until the input field no longer highlights the characters. Next, the Camera app and the notification panel should be opened at the same time. This can be achieved by tapping the camera icon or swiping left, then swiping down from the top. Tapping the gear icon that appears in the notification panel will prompt a text field asking for the password. Pasting the asterisks into the text field and continuing to add more until the UI crashes will reveal the home screen and grant access to the phone.
Alternatively, users can explore other unlock options. One approach is to use a different lock type by going to Settings > Lock screen and AOD > Screen lock type and adding a biometric method such as fingerprint or face recognition. Another option is to try a third-party app like DroidKit, 4uKey, or AndroidUnlock, although these tools are paid, often unreliable on newer devices, and may cause data loss. If all else fails, performing a factory reset will erase all data but allows users to start fresh. If Google backups are enabled, users can restore their apps, contacts, and settings after the reset.
A pro tip is to enable Smart Lock or Extend Unlock in Settings to keep the phone unlocked under trusted conditions, reducing the chance of future lockouts.
Understanding the limits of the emergency-call bypass helps users avoid wasted effort on modern devices where the method no longer works. It also highlights the importance of having backup authentication methods, such as biometrics, to prevent being locked out.
By setting up Smart Lock or Extend Unlock, users can maintain convenient access while still keeping their device secure, and they’ll be prepared to recover quickly if they ever forget their password.
