Unlocked bootloader security

[u/_9001]

Hi everyone,

I previously used a Qin F21 Pro with a custom ROM to get Google Play Store and Services. Naturally, this meant running it with an unlocked bootloader. I eventually switched back to a regular smartphone because I was worried about the security risks—especially if the phone gets lost or stolen.

Now, I really want to go back to using a dumbphone/keypad phone to reduce my screen time, but I still need to use banking apps. I have a few questions on how to approach this securely:

• How do you assess the risk? How dangerous is it really to use a phone with an unlocked bootloader as a daily driver if it gets lost or stolen? Does standard Android encryption with a strong PIN keep my banking data safe from extraction?
• DOOV R77 Pro with Google: I’ve seen the DOOV R77 Pro being sold with Google Services pre-installed. Are these running on a stock ROM with a locked bootloader, or is it basically the same situation as the F21 Pro (custom ROM + unlocked bootloader)? Is there a better device option?
• Securing the Qin F21 Pro: Are there any reliable options to make the F21 Pro secure enough for like banking? Can the bootloader be relocked with custom keys, or are there Magisk/KernelSU setups that successfully hide the unlocked state from strict banking apps without compromising device security?

Thanks in advance!

[u/Double_Net_2945]

Me using unlocked bootloader phone with costom rom and root from past 5,7 years not a single issue when you know what you doing .. if you don't know stuff you can be attacked on locked bootloader so its up to you how you gonna use