How can I recover my data on an original windows phone if I don't have the password?

Hi Rob,

I understand why you want to recover old photos from the phone, especially if they may be the only copy you have. However, I need to note that Windows Phone has reached end of support years ago. Because of that, recovery options for an old, locked device are extremely limited. You can still try these checks, but don't get your hopes too high up:

• Sign in to the Microsoft account that was used on the phone and check OneDrive, in case photo upload was enabled.
• If the phone has a removable microSD card, remove the card and check it on a PC using a card reader. If the photos were saved to the card, you may be able to copy them directly.
• Using a USB cable (although this is unlikely to work since it often asks you to unlock the phone first)
  • On your PC, open Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > AutoPlay > turn ON
  • Set everything to Open folder to view files (File Explorer) > connect your phone
  • If the phone folder appears and you can see the files inside, copy the photos to PC.

Unfortunately, if the photos are stored only in the phone’s internal memory and/or the phone requires the forgotten passcode before allowing access, there is no supported way to bypass the lock screen. While some third-party recovery services claim they can retrieve the data, Microsoft does not recommend using them and makes no guarantees regarding their effectiveness or safety.

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