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To erase personal data from a Galaxy phone you can access, back up anything you want to keep, review your accounts and removable storage, then use Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset. A factory data reset deletes personal data stored on the phone; it is different from resetting network settings or all settings. If the phone is missing, Samsung Find or SmartThings Find offers a separate remote-erase route.
Choose the right kind of reset
A factory data reset is the option for wiping the phone before selling, giving away, recycling, or starting over. Samsung Support describes it this way: “Factory resetting your phone restores it to its factory default settings and deletes all personal data stored on the device.” Samsung’s factory-reset guide also distinguishes it from narrower resets:
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- Factory data reset: deletes personal data stored on the device and restores factory defaults.
- Reset all settings: resets settings but does not erase apps, accounts, or personal data.
- Network settings reset: addresses network configuration rather than wiping the phone.
Menu labels and available options vary by Galaxy model and software version.
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Before you erase the phone
Back up what you want to keep
Copy wanted photos, videos, documents, and other data before resetting. Samsung’s Smart Switch PC backup instructions use a USB cable to connect the phone to a computer. Samsung cautions that hidden files and Secure Folder content may not transfer, so check those separately and preserve anything you need before proceeding. Its remote-erase guidance likewise says, “Before you reset the device, make sure to back up your data, so you can retrieve it later.”
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- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
If you use Smart Switch on a computer, use a compatible USB cable that supports data transfer, not just charging, and check that its connectors fit both the phone and computer.
Prepare accounts and credentials
Before transferring the phone to another person, review the accounts signed in on it. Samsung’s regional guidance recommends removing Google accounts before resetting to help avoid verification problems. Factory Reset Protection (FRP) is an anti-theft safeguard; after a reset, it may ask for a Google account previously registered on the device. A Samsung account password may also be requested to complete the reset. Make sure you know the credentials needed for the device before you start, and remove accounts as appropriate for a handoff.
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- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Samsung’s personal-information removal guidance covers account preparation before transfer. If credentials are uncertain or the reset is blocked, contact Samsung support or a Samsung service center rather than trying to bypass FRP.
Decide what to do with an SD card
Do not assume a local factory reset erases a removable SD card. Samsung’s local-reset guidance says SD-card data is not automatically deleted, so remove the card or erase it separately if you intend to hand it over. If the microSD card is encrypted, Samsung U.S. says to decrypt it before resetting if you want it to remain readable afterward. Samsung’s remote-reset instructions describe a different result: SD-card data is also erased during remote erase. These instructions apply to different reset routes, so handle the card according to the method you use.
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- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
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- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
Factory-reset a Galaxy phone you have
- Complete your backups and account and storage checks before starting.
- On the phone, open Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset. The exact labels may differ by model or software version.
- Review the warning and the data listed for deletion. Tap Reset, then Delete all.
- If prompted, enter the required Samsung account credentials. The phone restarts and returns to its initial setup screen.
Samsung’s factory-reset instructions provide the standard Settings route and explain that menu screens can vary. A reset removes wanted information along with other personal data, and Samsung warns that information may not be recoverable afterward; do not continue until you have saved what you need.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Erase a Samsung phone that is missing
If you cannot access the phone, Samsung says you can use the Samsung Find or SmartThings Find website to select the device and choose Erase data. You may be asked to reauthenticate your account. This is a remote alternative for a lost device, not the ordinary local reset procedure; Samsung’s remote-erase instructions also say that SD-card data is erased during this process.
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- AWESOME SCREEN. ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES: Elevate your content no matter where you are with the 6.7" Super AMOLED display¹ of the Galaxy A37 5G. Enjoy massive detail and stunning clarity on the go
- LONG-LASTING BATTERY: Whether it’s family moments or important calls, stay powered without the wait with Galaxy A37 5G. Super Fast Charging 2.0² ensures you’re back up and running quickly
- NEVER MISS THE SHOT, EVEN IN LOW LIGHT: With effortless Nightography, you can capture clear high-quality photos and videos on your phone automatically without adjusting manual settings
- PRO SHOTS, NO PROBLEM: Capture every moment effortlessly on Galaxy A37 5G with the advanced triple-lens camera system featuring a 50MP HDR main camera and a studio-grade front camera
- MORE POWER. MORE AWESOME: Enjoy smooth performance on Galaxy A37 5G. From detailed graphics while gaming to quick app launches and effortless multitasking, the Exynos 1480 keeps everything running
If remote erasure cannot be completed, Samsung recommends changing the passwords for accounts that may be signed in on the phone. Its lost-device guide covers locating and remotely erasing a Galaxy device.
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- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
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