Is there an alternate means of removing activation lock on an iPod touch?

No, except on school and business units managed by Apple Configurator. It's an anti-theft measure.

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Activation Lock pops-out when you didn’t use your iPod for like a year. So When yiu didn’t use your iPod, Activation Lock appears so your iPod can’t be stolen by thieves if you didn’t keep an eye on your iPod for a year.

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