Factory reset a locked Samsung phone
A factory reset erases the phone's data. Button combinations vary by model; connect the phone to a computer with a USB cable if Recovery Mode does not appear.
- Hold Volume Down and the Side/Power button until the screen goes black.
- As soon as it goes black, switch to holding Volume Up and the Side/Power button until Android Recovery appears.
- Use the volume buttons to highlight Wipe data/factory reset, then press the Side/Power button.
- Highlight Factory data reset and confirm. When finished, select Reboot system now.
Important: After resetting, Android may require the Google account previously synced to the phone. Make sure you're authorized to reset the device, and check Samsung support for model-specific instructions.