Android is the most popular mobile operating system in the world today. And, if you've been using an Android device for a while, you might already be aware of USSD codes.
USSD codes, also colloquially known as "secret codes", are simply codes that are used to unlock hidden actions in your smartphone. Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) is a user interface protocol that you can use to access hidden features in your smartphone.
To run any Android security code, you must input it directly into the dialer. If entered correctly, the code will return a response automatically, or you might have to press Dial. So what are the most common Android security codes? And what do the "secret codes" actually do?
1. *2767*3855# (Wipe Your Device and Reinstall Firmware)
This is one of the most effective Android security codes that you can use to quickly wipe all information from your device. Think of it as a factory reset—type this code on your dialer and run it, and it'll effectively delete all data from your phone, and wipe it clean.
This code takes things one step further as it reinstalls the firmware as well, so it'll be as good as new, software-wise.
Beware: This is a hard reset and will wipe everything, so only use it in an absolute emergency.
2. *#*#7780#*#* (Run a Factory Reset)
If you don't want to run a hard reset, this is the next best thing. Similar to a factory reset, this code will simply delete all application data from your device, as well as any applications. Then, it's going to return your device back to its factory state.
If you don't want to go the extra mile of resetting and reinstalling the firmware, and just want to remove any personal data, applications, and app data from your device, this is the best option. That makes it great for your privacy if you're selling your phone on.
3. *#06# (Check the Device's IMEI)
This is another important code that you can use to check whether the device's IMEI is the same as the one mentioned in the box. Most modern smartphones have the IMEI printed on the back, but if you want to be sure, you can check it by using this code.
Simply open the dialer, add in the code, and it'll return the IMEI. If you do this on a Samsung Android device, it'll also show you the device's serial number. This is important for security purposes, especially if you are buying a pre-owned device.
4. *#0*# (Activate General Test Mode)
Android phone not working properly? You'll understandably be suspicious of a third party affecting it. Enter this code on your Android device, and it'll show you a litany of different features, including:
Touch testing.
Front cam.
LED.
Sub key.
Barcode emulator test.
Device version.
RGB testing.
Grip sensor testing.
If you suspect any root-level tampering on your device, you can test individual features using this mode. From the device version to the front cam, each module can be tested discretely.
5. *#*#232338#*#* (Displays the MAC Address)
The Media Access Control address, also known as the MAC address, is a unique address assigned to every device. It's important as it can be used to uniquely identify a computer while it's connected to a network.
If you are doubtful about MAC spoofing on the device, you can view the MAC address on the device, and tally it on your network to ensure it's correct.
6. *#*#4986*2650468#*#* (Important Firmware Info)
This code is important as it returns key information associated with the device's firmware information. The code returns firmware information, PDA, phone, hardware, and the RF call date, or the manufacturing date. If you think that someone's tampered with the firmware on your device, you can check the firmware information using this code.
7. *#*#7594#*#* (Change The Power Button Behavior)
fun smartphone playground
If you want to change the behavior of the power button, you can use this code. Instead of having to hold the power button, and then selecting from the Power Menu to shut your phone off, this code lets you turn off your phone without showing the Power Menu at all.
This code can come in handy when you want to quickly shut down your device in compromising situations. Next time it powers on, the device will require a passcode, thus keeping your data safe in case the device is stolen.
8. *#3282*727336*# (View System and Storage Information)
This important code lets you view system and storage information. You can also view statistics associated with data usage with this code. While such data is hard to spoof, it can still be done. By running this USSD code, you can get accurate information about the internal Android system on the device, and the available storage.
Any data consumption on the device will also be shown on your screen when you use this code.
9. *#67# (Check Call Forwarding)
If you want to know whether your calls are forwarded to another number, use this code. That'll tell you whether call forwarding is active on your device, and it'll also show you the number your calls are being forwarded to. In case calls are being forwarded when your number's busy or when you reject a call, you'll know about that too.
In most cases, you'll only see this as your carrier's official voicemail service. And you also have the option to change this setting by going into your Android's call settings.
10. *31# (Disable Caller ID)
If you want to keep your privacy and prevent others from knowing when you call them, you can disable caller ID by using this code.
If you want to re-enable caller ID, just add the code again. It'll show you a message indicating whether services have been enabled or disabled every time you add it in.
11. *#*#34971539#*#* (View Information About the Camera)
The last code on our list lets you view comprehensive information about the camera, including the number of cameras, maximum zoom, firmware version, and other details. Given the fact that mobile cameras now feature several modules, this code can help you identify any instances of tampering with the camera firmware.
12. *43# (Enable Call Waiting)
If you're someone who's always on the calls, then call waiting might be just what you're looking for. With call waiting, you can take a second incoming call by putting your first call on the hold. In fact, in some cases, you might also be able to switch between the calls. If you think you're on the phone to a scammer, for instance, and someone else calls you, you can switch to that call and take time away from the potential scammer to think things through and maybe ask for advice.
Simply type in the code into the dialer and the service will be enabled on your phone. Conversely, when you want to disable it, the code has to be tweaked only a little; just type in #43# and call waiting will be disabled.
Protect Your Data With Android Codes and Hacks
Protecting your data on your Android device is very important. Android devices are susceptible to a range of malware, so it's important that you install a decent antivirus program. An antivirus will protect your data and periodically scan your phone for any malicious software.
Codes to display information about the phone
*#06# : Displays the IMEI and serial number of the device
*#*#4636#*#* : Displays phone, network and Wi-Fi information
*#0*# : Displays the phone information and test menu
*#*#34971539#*#* : Displays camera information
*#0228# : Displays battery status information
*#12580*369# : Displays software and hardware information
*#232337# : Displays the MAC address of your Bluetooth
*#232338# : Displays the WLAN MAC address
*#7465625# : Displays the network lock (simlock) status of your device
*#2663# : Displays information about your screen
*#1234# : Displays your firmware version
*#*#44336#*#* : Displays the firmware release date
*#*#2663#*#* : Displays touch screen information
Codes to perform tests on the phone
*#0289# : Play test music
*#0842# : Runs a smartphone vibrate test
*#0673# : Runs an audio test by playing a sound in MP3 format
*#*#2664 #*#* : Runs a touch screen test on your device
*#0283# : Runs a microphone audio test by looping
*#0588# : Runs a device proximity sensor test
*#9900# : Displays system reports
Codes to launch special operations on the phone
*2767*3855# or *#*#7780#*#* : Completely reset the device
*2767*2878#: Reset the device without erasing data
*#2470#: Enable or disable camera shutter sound
*#197328640#: Displays the Root Debug menu
*#78#: Displays the Admin Settings menu
*#*#273283*255*663282*#*#*: Makes a copy of the data from the SD card to the internal memory of the smartphone
*#*#7594#*#* : Modifies the behavior of the power button, allows you to directly turn off the smartphone once activated
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