Android’s Hidden Secrets: Security Codes You Should Know

Android currently stands as the most widely used mobile operating system globally. If you’ve been an Android user for some time, you’re likely familiar with USSD codes, which are input directly into the dialer to execute various functions. Successful entry of these codes prompts automatic responses or requires pressing the “Dial” button. So, what are the prevalent Android security codes, and what functions do these “secret codes” perform?

Categories of Android Security Codes

There are two primary categories of codes applicable to Android phones.

1. MMI (Man Machine Interface) Codes: These are factory-configured by the phone producer and provide access to hidden settings.

2. USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) Codes: These are simple codes for unlocking hidden actions on your smartphone.

Notable Android Security Codes

1. *2767*3855# (Wipe and Reinstall Firmware)

   – Function: Performs a comprehensive device wipe and firmware reinstallation.

   – Caution: Use only in emergencies due to its data erasure nature.

2. ##*#7780##*# (Factory Reset)

   – Function: Similar to a factory reset, erases application data and restores the device to factory settings.

   – Use: Ideal for privacy before selling your phone.

3. *#*#273282*255*663282#*#* (Media Files Backup)

   – Function: Quickly creates a backup for media files, useful in malware-infested scenarios.

4. *#06# (Check IMEI)

   – Function: Verifies the device’s IMEI, crucial when buying pre-owned devices.

5. *#*#1472365#*#* (GPS Test)

   – Function: Tests and provides information about the phone’s GPS functionality.

6. *#0*# (General Test Mode)

   – Function: Activates a test mode for various phone features, aiding in diagnostics.

7. *#*#232338#*#* (Display MAC Address)

   – Function: Displays the unique MAC address for device identification on networks.

8. *#*#4636#*#* (Check Battery, Wi-Fi, and Info)

   – Function: Provides detailed information on battery, WLAN, and app usage, aiding in phone assessment.

9. *#*#7594#*#* (Change Power Button Behavior)

   – Function: Alters the power button’s behavior for quick shutdowns, enhancing security.

10. *#12580*369# (Check Software and Hardware)

    – Function: Swiftly checks phone software, firmware, and hardware information.

11. *#3282*727336#* (View System and Storage Info)

    – Function: Displays information on the internal Android system and available storage.

12. *#67# (Check Call Forwarding)

    – Function: Verifies whether call forwarding is active and shows the forwarded number.

13. *31# (Disable Caller ID)

    – Function: Disables caller ID for enhanced privacy during calls.

14. *#*#34971539#*#* (Camera Information)

    – Function: Offers comprehensive details about the device’s camera configuration.

15. *43# (Enable Call Waiting)

    – Function: Activates call waiting for managing multiple calls efficiently.

16. *#7353# (Quick Test Menu)

    – Function: Allows testing of audio, vibration, and microphone components.

17. *#*#4986*2650468#*#* (Check Firmware Info)

    – Function: Verifies if the device’s firmware has been tampered with.

18. *#*#197328640#*#* (Activate Service Mode)

    – Function: Provides detailed information about network and radio activities.

19. *#0588# (Proximity Sensor Test)

    – Function: Calibrates or tests the proximity sensor to prevent accidental calls.

20. *#0589# (Light Sensor Test)

    – Function: Tests the light sensor functionality when it’s not working correctly.

Employing these Android codes helps users safeguard their data, ensuring privacy and protection against potential security threats, including malware. Additionally, they serve as valuable tools for diagnostics and troubleshooting various aspects of the device.