Have you ever seen a video showing someone unlocking a locked phone using an emergency call? It looks slick, fast, and almost too good to be true.

But here’s the thing: can a simple emergency dialer screen really break through a phone’s security? Or is it just another internet myth that tricks people into trying risky shortcuts?

In this blog, we’ll uncover the truth behind the so-called trick: Unlock Any Phone Password Using Emergency Call! Also, we will show you what really works (and what definitely doesn’t).

🔑Key Highlights
  • The emergency call trick seems like a quick fix. It’s mostly outdated and no longer works on modern smartphones due to security updates.
  • While many people try using the emergency call screen trick, it’s generally unreliable and can compromise your phone’s security.
  • Most phones have patched emergency call vulnerabilities, making them irrelevant for unlocking your device in today’s security landscape.
  • Unlocking Android’s lock screen through unauthorized methods can lead to data loss and may even cause more problems than it solves.
  • For iPhone users, iOS system repair tools can be a great solution when you need to unlock a device after multiple failed attempts or forgotten passwords.

Can You Unlock a Phone Using an Emergency Call?

Human pressing Emergency call button in Smartphone.

The emergency call feature: Many people search for how to unlock a phone by using the emergency call feature when they forget their password, wondering if there is an easy and quick way around a passcode.

Older phones had software bugs that attackers could exploit if they could figure out how to use the emergency dialer, but modern smartphones have mostly patched those holes recently.

So far, the emergency call capability is limited to placing a call to emergency service numbers (like 911 or 112) and does not have access to the device’s data or settings. This is to keep your personal details and secure your phone.

How to unlock any phone password using emergency call?

How to unlock a phone password by dialing an emergency call is a popular trend that normally goes viral on the internet, especially as a “hack.”

However, note that trying to unlock a phone in this manner might have security risks, and it’s not the best method.

Let’s debunk what can actually be done for both iPhone and Android:

On Android

Unlocking a phone using an emergency call is generally not a reliable method for bypassing security features, especially on newer devices. However, for older Android models, there is a legacy trick that might work.

Here’s how you can attempt to unlock an Android phone using an emergency call:

Unlocking Android Using Emergency Call (Legacy Trick for Android 5.0–5.1)

Note: This method primarily works on Android 5.0–5.1 due to a security flaw. It is not applicable to newer versions.

  • Activate Emergency Call: On the lock screen, tap the Emergency Call option to open the dialer.
  • Type Special Characters: In the dialer, type a string of characters, such as asterisks (*) or hashtags (#), several times. For example, press the asterisk button 10 times.
  • Copy and Paste: Select the typed characters and copy them. Then, paste the copied string back into the dialer to double the characters. Repeat this process until you can no longer paste (usually after 10-11 iterations).
  • Open Camera App: Return to the lock screen and open the Camera app. Pull down the Notification Panel.
  • Paste in Password Field: Long-press in the password field and paste the copied string. Continue pasting until the UI starts to crash.
  • Wait for Crash: The repeated pasting will eventually crash the lock screen UI. Wait patiently until the camera also crashes.
  • Access Home Screen: After the crash, you might gain access to the home screen, effectively bypassing the lock screen.

🚨 Warning:

  • Does NOT work on newer Androids/iPhones.
  • May freeze or damage old devices.
  • It’s not legal on non-owned phones.

The Android system is designed with robust security to prevent unauthorized access, making it crucial to use safe recovery methods when locked out.

📖 Also Read: Stop Someone from Accessing Your Phone Remotely: Tips

On iPhone

Unlocking an iPhone using an emergency call is generally not a reliable or recommended method for bypassing security features. However, there is a trick that might work for older iPhone models.

Unlocking iPhone with Emergency Call (iOS 6.1 and Older)

Note: This method only works for older iPhone models running iOS 6.1 or earlier. It provides limited access to features like Photos, Dialer, and Contacts.

  • Step 1: Slide to Unlock and Enter Wrong Passcode: Start by sliding to unlock your iPhone and entering an incorrect passcode. Tap Cancel.
  • Step 2: Access Emergency Call: Slide to unlock again and tap on Emergency Call.
  • Step 3: Power Button Trick: Hold the Power button until the “Slide to power off” option appears. Tap Cancel.
  • Step 4: Dial Emergency Number: Dial an emergency number like 112 or 911. Tap the call button and immediately cancel it. Press the Power button to turn off the screen.
  • Step 5: Turn On and Unlock: Turn on the screen using the Home or Power button. Slide to unlock.
  • Step 6: Final Step: Hold the Power button for about 3 seconds and tap Emergency Call before the “Slide to power off” option appears. Your iPhone should now be unlocked but with limited functionality.

Unlocking iPhone Using Siri (iOS 12-15)

For newer iOS versions, using Siri can provide some access, though it doesn’t bypass the lock screen entirely.

Here’s how to use Siri to access some features:

  • Step 1: Activate Siri: Long press the Home button (or say “Hey Siri” if enabled) to activate Siri.
  • Step 2: Ask Siri a Question: Ask Siri something like “What’s the time now?” or any other question that prompts a response.
  • Step 3: Access Clock App: If Siri displays the time, you might be able to tap on the clock icon to open the Clock app.
  • Step 4: World Clock: In the Clock app, you can access the World Clock feature.
  • Step 5: Share: Tap on the “Share” option in the World Clock section.
  • Step 6: Access Contacts: You might be able to access your Contacts through the Share feature.

However, some old tricks claim to unlock phones using emergency calls, but these methods are largely ineffective on modern devices due to enhanced security features.

Best Alternative Methods to Unlock Password Using Emergency Call

While the emergency call trick may seem like an easy solution, there are safer and more reliable alternatives to regain access to your phone.

Let’s explore the best methods to unlock your device without compromising your security.

For iPhone

1. Use Apple ID to Reset Password (iOS 15 and later)

  • Step 1: Enter the wrong password multiple times until you see the “Forgot password?” option.
  • Step 2: Tap “Forgot password?”.
  • Step 3: Enter your Apple ID email and password.
  • Step 4: Follow the on-screen prompts to reset your password.

2. Use Recovery Mode to Restore Your iPhone

  • Step 1: Turn off your iPhone.
  • Step 2: Connect to your computer while pressing and holding the volume down button (for iPhone 7 and later) or home button (for iPhone 6 and earlier).
  • Step 3: Keep holding until you see the Recovery Mode screen.
  • Step 4: Click Restore in iTunes (Windows/macOS Mojave and earlier) or Finder (macOS Catalina and later).
  • Step 5: After the restore, you can set up your iPhone again, either as a new device or by restoring from a backup.

3. Contact Apple Support

If the above methods don’t work, reach out to Apple Support for assistance.

For Android

1. Use Google’s Find My Device (Works for Android Phones)

Google’s Find My Device allows you to remotely unlock your Android phone if you’ve forgotten your password.

  • Step 1: Go to Find My Device: https://www.google.com/android/find.
  • Step 2: Log in with the Google account linked to the locked phone.
  • Step 3: Choose the locked phone from the device list.
  • Step 4: Click on “Lock” and set a temporary password.
  • Step 5: Use the new password to unlock your phone.

2. Factory Reset (If other methods don’t work)

If you can’t access your Android phone, a factory reset will erase all data but allow you to unlock your phone.

For Phones with a Physical Home Button:

  • Step 1: Turn off the phone.
  • Step 2: Press and hold the volume up + power button simultaneously until the phone logo appears.
  • Step 3: Use the volume buttons to navigate to “Wipe data/factory reset” and press Power to select it.
  • Step 4: Confirm the reset by selecting “Yes.”
  • Step 5: Once the reset is complete, choose Reboot system now.

For Phones without a Home Button (e.g., newer Samsung devices):

  • Step 1: Turn off the phone.
  • Step 2: Press and hold the volume up button, Bixby button (if applicable), and Power button until the recovery screen appears.
  • Step 3: Use the volume buttons to highlight “Wipe data/factory reset” and confirm with the Power button.
  • Step 4: Select Yes to confirm the reset.
  • Step 5: Once the reset is complete, choose Reboot system now.

3. Contact Your Phone Manufacturer or Carrier

If none of the above methods work or if you want professional help, you can contact your phone manufacturer’s support (e.g., Samsung, Google) or your mobile carrier for further assistance.

Note: Some unlock tools offer advanced features like location changer, but be cautious—these methods often bypass security and can expose your data to malicious threats.

The Role of Emergency Calls in Phone Security

Emergency call features are designed to keep people safe while protecting their personal data. Here’s how they work and why they’re important:

Roles of Emergency Calls in Phone Security.

1. Accessible Even When Locked

  • You can make emergency calls (like 911 or 112) without unlocking the phone.
  • This is helpful if the phone owner is unconscious, injured, or unable to enter the passcode.

2. Saves Time in Critical Moments

  • In life-threatening situations, every second counts.
  • Emergency access ensures faster communication with police, fire, or medical services.

3. Limits Access to Personal Data

  • While you can dial emergency services, you cannot access private apps, photos, or messages.
  • This prevents misuse or data theft during emergencies.

4. Includes Medical Information (Optional)

  • Many smartphones allow you to add a Medical ID or emergency info (e.g., allergies, blood type, contacts).
  • First responders can view this from the lock screen—no password is needed.

5. Balances Security and Accessibility

  • It’s a smart security design: you stay safe and reachable in emergencies, but your personal data stays locked.

Best Practices to Avoid Phone Lockouts in the Future

To prevent getting locked out of your phone, follow these best practices:

  • Use Biometric Unlocking: Enable fingerprint or facial recognition for quick and secure access.
  • Set a Memorable Passcode: Choose a strong but memorable password or PIN.
  • Enable Account Recovery Options: Link your phone to a Google or Apple ID and keep recovery info updated.
  • Write It Down Securely: Store your passcode in a secure password manager if you tend to forget it.
  • Regular Backups: Back up data regularly to cloud storage to avoid loss during resets.
  • Avoid Frequent Changes: Don’t change your passcode too often unless necessary.
  • Keep Software Updated: Updates often fix bugs that could cause system lockouts.

Conclusion

In the end, unlocking any phone by initiating an emergency call may seem like a clever hack, but it is mostly just a myth. However, the vast majority of new smartphones are designed with layers of security that effectively negate any potential hack.

If you find yourself locked out of your locked device, your best bet is to follow the official recovery methods provided by your smartphone manufacturer. Use one of their built-in features, like Find My Device, reset to factory settings, or contact customer service.

Some random “trick” that may have worked once can only create more problems—even putting you at risk of being liable for any illegal activity and potentially exposing your data.

So, don’t fall for internet myths. Stay informed, stay secure, and always choose the safe route when dealing with phone lockouts.

FAQs

Can I unlock my Android phone if I forget my password?

If you’ve forgotten your Android phone password, you can unlock it using your Google account through the Find My Device feature. If that fails, a factory reset may be necessary, but it will erase your data unless backed up. Avoid third-party tools, as they can compromise your phone’s security.

What happens if you misuse the emergency call feature?

Misusing the emergency call feature can lead to serious consequences. It’s meant for contacting law enforcement, fire departments, or medical help in critical situations. Using it to bypass a lock screen or prank-call emergency services can be illegal and result in penalties. Always use it responsibly.

Why do Modern Phones Automatically Restrict Emergency Call Interfaces?

Modern smartphones restrict emergency call interfaces to prevent misuse and protect user security. These restrictions ensure that only emergency numbers can be dialed from the lock screen and that no sensitive system functions can be accessed without unlocking the phone. This helps prevent unauthorized access, pranks, and potential breaches of personal data.

Can I use an emergency call to bypass Factory Reset Protection (FRP)?

While there are claims that you can bypass FRP using emergency call codes (e.g., ##7378423##), success rates are uncertain. Tools like UltFone Android Unlock or DroidKit are recommended for reliable FRP bypass.

Prasanta Raut

Prasanta, founder and CEO of Dialaxy, is redefining SaaS with creativity and dedication. Focused on simplifying sales and support, he drives innovation to deliver exceptional value and shape a new era of business excellence.

Prasanta, founder and CEO of Dialaxy, is redefining SaaS with creativity and dedication. Focused on simplifying sales and support, he drives innovation to deliver exceptional value and shape a new era of business excellence.