Is There Any Way to Recover Data After Wiping While Unlocking a Bootloader?

When you unlock a bootloader on a device, it typically involves formatting the device’s storage, which often leads to the loss of all user data. This practice is common with many smartphones and tablets that run Android. While data recovery is challenging, there are still potential avenues you might explore to attempt data retrieval.

Stop Using the Device

The first and most crucial step in attempting data recovery after wiping the storage is to immediately stop using the device. Continuing to use the device may overwrite the deleted data, making recovery very difficult if not impossible.

Data Recovery Tools

Several data recovery tools are available that can scan the device's storage for recoverable files. The effectiveness of these tools may vary based on how the data was wiped and whether it has been overwritten. Some popular data recovery tools include:

These tools can be effective in recovering deleted files, but their success is contingent on how recently the wipe occurred and how much the device has been used since the reset.

Professional Data Recovery Services

If the data is particularly valuable, you may want to consider contacting a professional data recovery service. These services have specialized tools and techniques to recover lost data. However, this can be expensive, and the success rate is not guaranteed.

Check Backups

Always check your backups—cloud services, local backups, etc.—before unlocking the bootloader. If you had a backup before the wipe, you might be able to restore your data from there.

Rooting and Custom Recovery

If you are comfortable with advanced techniques, you might explore rooting the device and installing a custom recovery like TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project). In some cases, custom recoveries can help recover certain types of data. However, this is a complex process and is not guaranteed to be successful.

Be Advised: Data Recovery is Not Guaranteed

It is important to note that the success of data recovery heavily depends on the specific circumstances of the data loss. Factors such as the device make and model, the method of wiping the data, and the amount of time since the wipe can all impact the likelihood of recovery. Many modern Android devices, especially those running Android Lollipop and later, include Factory Reset Protection (FRP), which automatically resets the device's data once the bootloader is unlocked. This protective measure is designed to prevent unauthorized access to the device and its data.

Since the launch of Android Lollipop, FRP has been implemented in the Android source code. The logic behind this is straightforward: it prevents a thief from unlocking the bootloader on a stolen device to access the victim's data and personal information. While exploits have been discovered to bypass FRP, many device owners have still faced the loss of their data after unlocking the bootloader.

Once the data is wiped, it is effectively gone. Unless you have a backup from which to restore your data, I regret to inform you that it is likely lost forever.

Conclusion

Data recovery after a bootloader unlock is challenging and not guaranteed. While there are several methods and tools available, the success rate depends on numerous factors. It is always recommended to back up crucial data before performing any risky actions, such as unlocking a bootloader. If you find yourself in a situation where data recovery is necessary, consider contacting a professional service for assistance.