- Navigate to **Settings** > **Google** > **Backup**. - Make sure **Google Drive backup** is turned on. - Tap **Back Up Now** to save your most recent data.

How to factory reset an Android phone: A Privacy-focused guide

Securely wipe your Android, remove personal data, and restore privacy with this guide.

Author: Benjamin Nemeroff

March 7, 20254 mins read

Your Android phone is more than just a device – it holds your messages, accounts, photos, and personal data. When it starts acting up, gets cluttered with unnecessary apps, or you’re preparing to sell it, a factory reset can help restore it to a clean, optimized state. However, wiping your phone properly is crucial to ensure that no residual data lingers.

This guide will walk you through securely resetting your Android phone while keeping your privacy intact.

When should you factory reset your Android device?

A factory reset can be a game-changer in situations like:

Suspected malware or spyware – If your phone behaves strangely, a reset eliminates potential hidden threats.
Slow performance – Years of app installations and cached data can slow things down.
Selling or gifting your device – You don’t want your personal information falling into someone else’s hands.
Persistent software issues – If troubleshooting hasn’t worked, a fresh start might be the best solution.

What does a factory reset erase?

What a full Android reset removes

✅ Installed apps and their data

✅ System settings and preferences

✅ Messages, contacts, and accounts

✅ Photos, downloads, and stored files (unless backed up)

What a Android reset does not remove

❌ Pre-installed system apps

❌ Android OS updates (your system won’t revert to an older version)

Backing up your data before resetting

1. Via Google backup

Navigate to Settings > Google > Backup.
Make sure Google Drive backup is turned on.
Tap Back Up Now to save your most recent data.

2. Manually save important files

Upload critical documents and media to your preferred cloud service.
Transfer files to an external hard drive or computer.

How to factory reset your Android phone

Method 1: Reset through settings (easiest way)

Open Settings.
Scroll to System > Reset options.
Select Erase all data (factory reset).
Tap Reset phone, then confirm by selecting Erase everything.
Your phone will restart and begin the reset process.

Method 2: Using Recovery Mode (if you’re locked out)

If your device is unresponsive or you can’t access settings, Recovery Mode is the next option:

Turn off your phone.
Press and hold the Power + Volume Up (or Volume Down, depending on the manufacturer) until the recovery menu appears.
Use the volume buttons to navigate and select Wipe data/factory reset.
Confirm by selecting Yes.
Once finished, select Reboot system now.

Extra steps for a more secure reset

If you’re handing off your phone to someone else, take a few additional steps:

Remove your Google account before resetting (Settings > Accounts > Google > Remove Account) to avoid activation lock issues.
Encrypt your data before wiping (Settings > Security > Encrypt phone) to prevent data recovery attempts.
Verify reset completion: After setup, check Storage in settings to ensure no personal data remains.

Next steps after factory resetting Android

Restoring your phone after a reset

Sign in to your Google account during setup.
Choose Restore from Google Backup.
Select the most recent backup to recover apps, contacts, and settings.

Reinstalling essential privacy apps

After a reset, take the opportunity to install tools that enhance your digital security:

Encrypted messaging apps (Signal, Session)
Privacy-focused browsers (Brave)
Tracker-blocking tools (RethinkDNS, Blokada)
A secure VPN like NymVPN for private browsing

Final thoughts

A factory reset is one of the most effective ways to refresh your device, fix persistent issues, and remove any potential security threats. Whether you’re just troubleshooting or preparing your phone for a new owner, doing it correctly ensures no sensitive data is left behind.

Once your phone is reset, don’t stop there – take control of your digital privacy by using privacy-focused apps, encrypted communication, and decentralized VPNs like NymVPN. A clean slate is just the first step toward true online security.

Try NymVPN for 80% off today

Android factory reset: FAQs

What exactly does a factory reset remove from your Android device?

A factory reset deletes personal data—apps, settings, messages, photos, and accounts—and resets system preferences. It does not remove pre-installed system apps, OS updates, or data on microSD/SIM card.

Can data still be recovered after a factory reset?

Yes. Factory resets mark deleted files as reusable without overwriting them. Advanced recovery tools can retrieve residual data unless additional measures (like encryption or overwriting) are taken.

How can you securely wipe sensitive data before selling or disposing of your phone?

To prevent recovery:

Encrypt your device first (Settings → Security → Encrypt phone).
Perform a factory reset.

For maximal safety, overwrite storage with junk data or use NIST‑standard erasure tools.

Under what conditions might someone be locked out after a factory reset?

Android’s Factory Reset Protection (FRP) requires entering the previous Google Account and screen lock PIN after a reset. Removing Google Accounts before resetting helps avoid setup lockouts.

Does Android ever wipe cache automatically, or do you need to do it manually?

Android does not automatically clear all cached data. After a reset, leftover cache may remain until overwritten by new use. Recovery mode “wipe cache partition” or encryption before resetting improves data privacy.