Reviewed October 30, 2026 · Kinori Labs editorial

Stop destructive troubleshooting

Do not delete the app, reset the vault or erase the device just to see whether that clears the password screen. A forgotten password and a damaged installation are different problems. Removing an app can remove its local data. Start by finding the product’s official recovery instructions and understanding exactly what each reset action deletes.

Inventory what still exists

Look for source originals, exported archives, previous devices and documented backups. Write down which copies are readable and which remain encrypted. Do not overwrite an older archive with an empty or newly reset vault. If a device backup is involved, check its date and the developer’s guidance on whether its files and keys can be restored together. Apple’s backup overview explains broad coverage but cannot establish a particular app’s recovery design.

Distinguish a reset from decryption

A service may let you change an account password without using that password as the only way to decrypt files. Another app may have no recovery mechanism at all. Strong encryption can make forgotten secrets unrecoverable when no alternate key exists. A claim that support can always recover everything deserves a clear explanation of who holds decryption keys. Never send private files or passwords to an unsolicited recovery service.

Make the next setup survivable

Once access is restored, test an encrypted export and keep its required secret outside the phone. Use a trusted password manager or another considered recovery location. Vaultary is in development and does not promise staff-assisted decryption or a password bypass. Its proposed recovery path depends on a usable encrypted archive and its secret. The important product question is whether you can demonstrate recovery before your only device is unavailable.

Primary source

Apple’s official documentation. System behavior varies by software version and settings. Review the current instructions on your device.

How we’re approaching Vaultary · Our recovery principles

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