my iPhone activation lock. what should I do?

"Activation Lock for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch" is a security feature, one aspect of which is deterring re-selling of stolen devices. To learn more click here --> http://support.apple.com/HT201365

An activation lock can only be removed using information for the account that applied the lock. If you know this information follow the onscreen steps to enter the Apple ID and password used to set up the device, or enter the device passcode.

Click on this link to learn 'How to remove Activation Lock' --> https://support.apple.com/HT201441

If you do not know the required information and you are not the original owner, get the owner of the account to remove the lock or return the device for a refund or recycle it. The device is otherwise useless to you. If the owner is unknown and has not provided contact information as a message showing in the login screen, there is no way to contact the owner unless the person who gave you the device knows them.

If somebody needs help dealing with lost information:

• "If you forgot your Apple ID" [this is likely an email address you are using or used in the past] click here --> https://support.apple.com/HT201354

• "If you forgot your Apple ID password" click here --> https://support.apple.com/HT201487

Otherwise:

- Apple can completely reset a device if a person can provide sufficient evidence of valid ownership. Do this online at: Activation Lock support request - https://al-support.apple.com/#/additional-support Apple says, "Proof of ownership documentation is required," but does not state what currently constitutes proof. Prior to this new online service Apple typically required the original receipt issued by an Apple Authorized dealer and documented provenance (so typically it would be the original owner who does this, or a descendant with legal proof of ownership).

Activation Lock is intended as a theft deterrent.

Is this an iPhone you’ve recently acquired, or is this an iPhone you acquired new from Apple or an Apple authorized reseller?

If this iPhone is newly acquired, return it to the seller for a refund, if you can still locate them. You cannot use this iPhone, amd no one here can help you, and Apple won’t help you.

If this is an iPhone you acquired new, then you’ll need to recover access to that Apple ID, or acquire your original purchase documentation with the IMEI or serial number and matching photo identification and discuss unlocking this iPhone with Apple. And Activation Lock shows a hint for the email address associated with the Activation Lock. Is that hint showing an email address that you recognize?