Can't set a screen lock (Pixel 4a)

[mflynnp]

If I try to set my screen lock to either pattern, pin, or password, it has me input what I want it to be, then re-enter, then when I hit "confirm," it just goes back to "choose a screen lock," and I'm stuck in a loop. No matter what, it never actually changes, it just stays as "swipe" or "none," whichever it was before. The settings app will also often crash at some point during this process. My system is up to date, Android 12, and this problem actually arose before I updated.

 

[belodion]

Welcome.

I had a similar problem, though not on a Pixel, some time ago but can’t now recall how I solved it.
Try clearing the cache and data of the Settings app, then have another go.

Tell us if that doesn’t help.

 

[mflynnp]

Tried it, no change

 

[belodion]

Try installing and setting up the Google Find My Device app, which, as a Device Administrator, will require you to use some kind of lock. That may force it to work when you try to set one.

Tell us if no go.

 

[mflynnp]

It had me set up a password, but not a screen lock. I used it to lock the screen, and then just swiped open again

 

[mustang7757]

Welcome to AC, sounds like your going to need factory reset with settings crashing

 

[B. Diddy]

Welcome to Android Central! Does this also happen in Safe Mode? https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/2852139?hl=en

 

[belodion]

I was going to suggest Safe Mode too.

Tell us when that doesn’t work either. We’ll get there eventually.

 

[mflynnp]

It worked in safe mode! Thank you!

 

[belodion]

Good.

Hopefully you can identify the third-party app responsible for the trouble.

 

[B. Diddy]

Do you have any 3rd party security apps installed? If so, I'd start there.