Fix PIN Errors After TWRP Restore - Android Guide

Recovering from Encryption Issues After a TWRP Restore
Creating TWRP backups is essential for users who intend to root and customize their Android devices. However, restoring from a backup on an encrypted phone can sometimes lead to complications with your PIN or password lock.
Understanding the Problem
The restoration process functions smoothly if the backup utilizes the identical PIN as your current operating system. However, discrepancies arise when restoring to a system employing a different PIN than the one used during the backup.
Upon rebooting, your device may prompt you for a PIN, displaying a message like "PIN required when you restart device."
Possible Scenarios and Solutions
You might encounter situations where you are required to input your most recent PIN during boot-up, followed by your previous PIN to access your phone. Alternatively, you may find yourself completely unable to unlock your device.
It’s important not to be alarmed; these issues are generally easily resolved.
- Scenario 1: Dual PIN Entry – If prompted for both old and new PINs, simply enter them correctly to regain access.
- Scenario 2: Unable to Unlock – Proceed to the troubleshooting steps outlined below.
Troubleshooting Steps
If you are unable to unlock your phone after restoring a TWRP backup, there are several methods to regain access. These typically involve using Android Debug Bridge (ADB) commands to bypass the lock screen.
Further detailed instructions on utilizing ADB to resolve this issue can be found in dedicated online guides and forums. Remember to research thoroughly before attempting any advanced troubleshooting steps.
Regularly backing up your data and understanding potential encryption-related issues can help ensure a smooth and secure Android experience.
Resolving Dual PIN/Password Issues on Your Android Device
Following a restoration from a backup, a peculiar situation can arise where your Android device recognizes two different PINs. Specifically, the device may prompt for your current PIN upon startup, while utilizing a previously saved PIN (from the restored backup) for unlocking. While not critically problematic, this can lead to user confusion due to the necessity of recalling multiple credentials.
Fortunately, a straightforward resolution exists: simply update your PIN within the Android settings menu.
How to Reset Your PIN or Password
Navigate to the Android Settings application. Then, proceed to the Security section and select Screen Lock.
Within the Screen Lock options, tap on either PIN or Password. This will allow you to establish a new PIN or password for securing your device.
- Selecting PIN will prompt you to enter a new numeric code.
- Choosing Password enables you to create a more complex alphanumeric password.
Once a new PIN or password has been set, it will be consistently applied across all device functions. This includes both the initial boot sequence and the lock screen access.
This ensures a unified security experience, eliminating the need to remember multiple access codes.
Addressing Complete Device Lockout
A particularly challenging scenario arises when your device refuses to unlock entirely. This manifests as a situation where your previously functioning PIN works during the boot process, but no PIN input will grant access to the phone's interface. Fortunately, a resolution is attainable, though it necessitates additional procedures.
Begin by booting the device into TWRP recovery mode. The system may request a password; enter your most recently utilized, working PIN – the one employed before the restoration from backup. If no PIN was previously set, input the term
default_passwordto proceed to the main TWRP interface.

Navigate to Advanced, then select File Manager. Within File Manager, access the /data/system directory. Locate and identify the files possessing the
.keyextension. Both of these files should be deleted by tapping each one and confirming the deletion. Subsequently, remove all files containing the string
locksettings.
For instance, on a Nexus 5X device, the following files might require deletion:
password.keypattern.keylocksettings.dblocksettings.db-shmlocksettings.db-wal

After the deletion of all relevant key and locksettings files, initiate a system reboot. Should a prompt appear regarding SuperSU installation, opt to "Do Not Install".
A PIN request may occur during the boot sequence. Your most recent PIN – the one used prior to the backup restoration – should now function correctly.
Upon Android's startup, the lock screen should be displayed without any PIN or password requirement. Successfully unlock the phone and proceed to the Settings application. Access the Security menu, then select Screen Lock. From this location, a new PIN or password can be established for future device security.

This newly configured PIN or password will then be utilized for all subsequent security prompts and access controls.