Shutdown Prevention - Samsung
Here's how to unlock your screen if you can't remember your password, PIN, pattern or fingerprint for your Samsung device.
Shutdown Prevention is a security measure for misplaced or stolen Samsung devices running Android™ Nougat 7 or higher that prevents the device from being powered off when the screen is locked.
Only applies to devices with non-removable batteries.
How it works
- Shutdown Prevention is automatically activated when a screen lock option (e.g., PIN, pattern, password, fingerprint, etc.) has been set up.Screen lock options vary by device.
- Allows for extended device tracking via Samsung's Find My Mobile website or the Find My Device website (formerly Android Device Manager).For additional info, refer to Remotely Locate Device - Find My Device - Android or Find My Mobile - Samsung.
- The device won't power off until the chosen security method (PIN, password, pattern or fingerprint) is correctly entered or the battery has fully depleted.
- If your screen lock option is forgotten, the screen can only be unlocked by performing an Untrusted Reset (reset with device powered off) after the battery has fully depleted. Google™ sign-in credentials are required to complete an Untrusted Reset.
- To perform an Untrusted Reset for smartphones / tablets after the battery has fully depleted, refer to the appropriate section(s) below.