800_gawd
Level 1 (8 points)
Notebooks

Q: Is there anyway I can change the Firmware password?

Okay, so I recently just bought a 2012 Macbook Air from my best friend who bought it from someone online like a year or two ago. I wanted to reset the entire thing so I could use it as "my own" if you know what I mean. When I tried to reset the entire thing, it asked for a firmware password and my best friend didn't know it and he said he doesn't have any contact with the person he bought it from originally. I know if I go to the apple store about this issue they are probably going to want proof of purchase, but I don't have proof of purchase. Is there anything i can do to get around this situation?

MacBook Air, OS X El Capitan (10.11.5)

Posted on Jun 28, 2016 7:23 AM

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800_gawd

Q: Is there anyway I can change the Firmware password?

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  • by K Shaffer,

    K Shaffer K Shaffer Jun 28, 2016 1:06 PM in response to 800_gawd
    Level 6 (14,429 points)
    Desktops
    Jun 28, 2016 1:06 PM in response to 800_gawd

    Your 'best friend' should refund your money because he/she did not

    have a computer that could be prepared for resale, by any measure.

     

    The previous owner should have:

    • What to do before selling or giving away your Mac - Apple Support

     

    The EFI Firmware Password locks the hardware; unless you or the

    person who sold you this, has the password or unimpeachable proof

    of ownership or a legal documented path on paper in your possession

    the unit is worthless. It would need to be readied for a new owner &

    in order to use it online, be set up with your Apple ID.

     

    Good luck in this matter!