How to Wipe a Samsung Phone: A Comprehensive Guide
Wiping a Samsung phone is an essential process when you’re planning to sell, donate, or simply want to start fresh with your device. It ensures that all your personal data, apps, and settings are completely removed, protecting your privacy and security. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to wipe a Samsung phone, whether you’re using Android 8.0 Oreo or later versions.
1. Backup Your Data
Before you proceed with wiping your Samsung phone, it’s crucial to backup all your important data. This includes contacts, photos, videos, and any other files you don’t want to lose. You can backup your data using Samsung Cloud, Google Drive, or any other preferred method.
2. Factory Reset via Settings
The simplest way to wipe a Samsung phone is by using the built-in factory reset feature. Here’s how to do it:
1. Go to the “Settings” app on your Samsung phone.
2. Scroll down and tap on “General management.”
3. Select “Reset.”
4. Tap on “Factory data reset.”
5. Choose “Erase all data (format internal storage).”
6. Enter your PIN, password, or pattern to confirm.
7. Tap on “Reset device” and wait for the process to complete.
3. Factory Reset via Recovery Mode
If the factory reset through the settings doesn’t work or you want to ensure that all data is completely wiped, you can use the recovery mode. Here’s how to do it:
1. Turn off your Samsung phone.
2. Press and hold the “Volume Up,” “Bixby,” and “Power” buttons simultaneously.
3. When the Samsung logo appears, release the “Power” button but keep holding the “Volume Up” and “Bixby” buttons.
4. Use the “Volume Down” button to navigate to “Wipe data/factory reset.”
5. Press the “Power” button to select “Wipe data/factory reset.”
6. Confirm the action by pressing “Yes.”
7. Wait for the process to complete.
4. Remove SD Card and SIM Card
After wiping your Samsung phone, it’s a good practice to remove the SD card and SIM card. This ensures that your data is not recoverable from these external sources.
5. Final Checks
Once the wiping process is complete, perform a final check to ensure that your Samsung phone is functioning correctly. Verify that the device is responsive, and all the necessary apps and services are working as expected.
By following these steps, you can successfully wipe a Samsung phone and start fresh with your device. Remember to backup your data before proceeding, and always use the appropriate method to ensure that your data is completely erased.
