Catholic teaching is that some virtuous individuals, perhaps many of them, such as virtuous pagans or let's say virtuous Buddhists, can be saved, even though they do not know Christ consciously. But they listen to their hearts and consciences and do the best they know how.
Even though they don't consciously know Christ, Christ knows them, and can offer His grace to them.
One biblical indication that this principle follows is that it is that Abraham, Moses, and other virtuous Hebrews are said to be in heaven. They did not know Christ consciously, but they had faith in God and Christ saved them retroactively. See also St. Paul's words concerning the ancient "heroes of faith." From the viewpoint of eternity, all time is present time, and Christ's saving sacrifice can just as well extend backward into the past as forward into the future.
But it is just plain wrong in the traditional Christian view to say that there can be any salvation except through Christ. His saving sacrifice and offered grace are the only means of salvation.
I am afraid that is incorrect.
Tradition may assume salvation another way, but the bible seem very clear.
Please look at John 3:17-18, Acts 4:12, Romans 1-3. These among others show salvation is neccessary. If God has mercy other than Christ, would he not have told us clearly?