What to Do If Your Phone Screen Cracks, 7 Ways to Protect It Until You Get It Fixed

A cracked phone screen is more than an inconvenience. The broken glass can cut your fingers, the exposed internals can be damaged by dust or liquid, and the touchscreen may stop working entirely. Until you can get a proper repair, you need to stabilize the damage and protect both yourself and the device.

What to do first

1. Power off the phone. This prevents accidental touches, short circuits, or further damage from a failing display.
2. Remove the case and any screen protector. Broken glass fragments can hide under the edges and cause cuts later.
3. Inspect the damage. If the glass is shattered but the display still shows an image, the touch layer may still work. If you see black spots, colored lines, or no image, the LCD or OLED panel is likely damaged.
4. Back up your data now. If the screen responds, connect the phone to a computer or use cloud backup. If it does not respond, you may need a repair shop to retrieve data.

7 ways to protect the screen until you get it fixed

1. Apply clear packing tape. Cut a piece slightly larger than the cracked area and smooth it over the glass. This holds fragments in place and prevents cuts. Avoid covering sensors or the front camera.
2. Use a temporary screen protector. Many stores sell peel-and-stick films that can bridge small cracks and keep glass from flaking off.
3. Put the phone in a rigid case. A hard-shell case adds structural support and keeps pressure off the screen if you drop it again.
4. Use a plastic bag for moisture protection. If the crack exposes internal components, a zip-top bag can keep out rain, sweat, and spills. Do not seal it if the phone is overheating.
5. Avoid pockets and tight spaces. Carry the phone in a bag or holster where nothing presses against the screen.
6. Switch to voice controls and assistive features. Use Google Assistant, Siri, or accessibility settings to navigate without touching the cracked area.
7. Keep it away from children and pets. Curious hands and paws can make a small crack much worse in seconds.

What NOT to do

• Do not press on the cracked glass to test it. This can shatter it further or push glass into the display.
• Do not use superglue or cyanoacrylate adhesives. They can seep into the phone, damage components, and make professional repair impossible.
• Do not charge the phone if the crack is near the charging port or if you see exposed wires. This is a fire and shock hazard.
• Do not ignore cuts. If you get glass in your skin, clean the wound and seek medical attention if it is deep or bleeding heavily.

When to get professional help

Contact a repair professional if the screen does not respond to touch, if you see black spots or lines, if the phone will not turn on, or if the crack exposes internal parts. Manufacturer-authorised repair centres or reputable independent shops can replace the screen and often recover your data. If the phone is under warranty or you have device insurance, check the terms before you attempt any DIY fix.

How to prevent future cracks

Use a tempered glass screen protector and a shock-absorbing case. Avoid putting the phone in a back pocket where it can bend. Keep it away from the edge of tables and counters. Consider a phone grip or lanyard if you tend to drop it.

A cracked screen is a race against time. Tape it, back it up, and get it to a repair shop before the damage spreads. If you are unsure whether the phone is safe to use, power it off and seek professional advice.