brjohnstone
Level 1
(12 points)
Q: how can i change the security questions if I don't remember the answers
I bought a used Mac running OS X El Capitan. when I set it up I must have done something wrong because I can't change anything or download anything. it keeps asking to verify my identity. each time I get almost there and it asks for the answers to the security questions but I can't remember them. I went through the iCloud sign in and entered the security six digit code sent in the last support session; same problem. Can I,should I, go back and get a new apple Id and Password. will that solve the problem?
mac desk top, OS X El Capitan (10.11)
macjack
Level 9
(55,682 points)
Hi brjohnstone, you'll need to reformat the disk in order to remove the previous owner's Apple ID, until you do you will not be able to download updates or apps from the AppStore. It will also create the problem you are having.
You need to format the disk, then install OS X. That will remove the previous owner Apple ID. If it's a 2010 Mac then you may not have a recovery partition installed. You need to boot with OEM disks that shipped with your Mac, if you do not have these call Apple, give them the serial number and they can send you the discs for a nominal fee.
Disk Utility (El Capitan): Erase a volume
Boot up command + option + R. Choose Disk Utility and erase the entire hard drive (uppermost icon). Now, partition your drive, You need to create at least one partition for Mac OS X that should be formatted OS X Extended, GUID partition scheme which is set by default. Be sure you are connected to the internet via Wi-Fi or ethernet. The original OS that computer shipped with your Mac will be installed. After it finishes installing, it will reboot and put you SetUp Assistant. Once you set up your accounts, you can log into the AppStore and upgrade to El Capitan.
