Google device protection on your Samsung Galaxy
If your Samsung Galaxy phone or tablet is ever lost or stolen, Google Device Protection helps keep your data safe by preventing unauthorized factory resets. It uses your Google account to verify your identity before allowing access or setup, adding a crucial layer of security.
Note: While the advice in this guide is universally applicable, it has been tailored specifically for our Canadian customers.
When you sign in to your Galaxy phone or tablet with a Google account and set up a screen lock, Google device protection activates automatically. If someone tries to perform a factory reset without your permission, the device will demand the username and password of the most recently used Google account. Without this verification, the device remains locked, making it unusable to anyone else.
If your Galaxy phone or tablet is reset using the Recovery menu, Google will require you to sign in with the Google account previously linked to the device. Just enter your usual username and password to verify your identity and complete the setup.
If the situation becomes more complicated, here are your next steps:
- Visit a Samsung Service Center: Bring your device along with valid proof of purchase to an authorized Samsung Service Center for assistance with unlocking.
- Previous screen lock may be required: Depending on your Android version, you may be asked to enter the device’s previous screen lock (such as a PIN, pattern or password) before continuing.
- Resetting your Google password: If you’ve forgotten your password, you can change or reset it. Be aware that Google may enforce a 24-hour waiting period before the new password can be used to unlock the device.
- Use Find My Device: If you're unsure which Google account was originally set up on the device, you can visit Find My Device and check the list of devices linked to each of your Google accounts.
To avoid triggering Google Device Protection, always perform a factory reset through the Settings menu. If you reset your device using the Recovery menu instead, you’ll be required to sign in with the previously linked Google account and password to unlock it.
Note: Before performing a factory reset, make sure to back up any important data, as your personal information may not be recoverable afterward. If you've encrypted your microSD card, you must decrypt it before resetting your device, otherwise, the phone may not be able to read the card’s data. To do this, go to Settings, search for Decrypt SD card and follow the on-screen instructions.
Note: If you are unable to reset your device or complete the initial setup due to account credentials stored on the device, please contact us for assistance.
Thank you for your feedback!
Please answer all questions.
The coding for Contact US > Call > View more function. And this text is only displayed on the editor page, please do not delet this component from Support Home. Thank you