stolen devices

Hello~ Tell Apple about it…

Product Feedback - Apple

Also go to lower left and click on small Support icon. We are all just fellow forum members like yourself and Apple is not here in the capacity you are expecting.

~Katana-San~

Here you go, simply seeing the Hello screen is not enough and you will have to continue to activate the device. If the device gets activated, then it does not have an Activation Lock.

If you want to buy a preowned iPhone - Apple Support

Of course that is the only lock that Apple has any information about. Using MDM software does not have to be registered with Apple and any business can install it on their devices without Apple knowledge. A blacklisted phone or SIM lock is done by a cellular provider, again without notifying Apple. As with any used device purchase, it is buyer beware, as there are many more issues you can find with a device that is out of Apple's control.

If you are looking for protections, then only buy from a location where it can be returned if you have any trouble. That is good advice for any purchase, not just Apple devices. For more information about the problems you can encounter if you still want to purchase a device from an unknown seller or without a return policy, then review this User Tip:

The All Too Common SAD Reality of Buying … - Apple Community

moosedog20 wrote:

Who thinks apple should have a page on all there devices to ensure a device isn’t stolen or backlisted, iCloud locked, or have a registered MDM on their devices when people buy used products!

Apple doesn't have that information.

I have been scammed and I feel it’s apples fault!

Caveat emptor.