You can make a difference in the Apple Support Community!

When you sign up with your Apple Account, you can provide valuable feedback to other community members by upvoting helpful replies and User Tips.

Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

"This Mac is Linked to A Different Apple ID"

I basically wanted to downgrade my software back to Mojave but I clicked Erase Mac Bc I Thought it would delete the software but I didn't read all of it and now I'm stuck on an activation lock and I put the ID I setup my macbook with when I got it. Can someone help me fix this issue?

MacBook Pro 15″, macOS 12.4

Posted on Aug 19, 2022 8:45 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Aug 20, 2022 12:55 PM

You need the Apple ID and password that was used when the device was first set up. If you don’t know that, you can’t remove the Activation Lock.


If this is a used device, the previous owner needs to go to https://www.icloud.com/find/ and erase the device, then remove it from their account. If they won't do that, the device is useless. Apple won't unlock it.


Turn off Activation Lock - Apple Support.   *


If you are the original owner, contact Apple. Apple can remove the ID  if provided the required paperwork to include the original purchase receipt with the serial number on it. 


Request additional support for unlocking your device.    -


You used to be able to take the device, the original purchase receipt with the serial number, and a photo ID to the nearest Apple Store (if it has reopened) and have them remove the ID. This may have changed, so call the store before going to make sure they can help.


Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple.   -

1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Aug 20, 2022 12:55 PM in response to Not_IceyVROnYT

You need the Apple ID and password that was used when the device was first set up. If you don’t know that, you can’t remove the Activation Lock.


If this is a used device, the previous owner needs to go to https://www.icloud.com/find/ and erase the device, then remove it from their account. If they won't do that, the device is useless. Apple won't unlock it.


Turn off Activation Lock - Apple Support.   *


If you are the original owner, contact Apple. Apple can remove the ID  if provided the required paperwork to include the original purchase receipt with the serial number on it. 


Request additional support for unlocking your device.    -


You used to be able to take the device, the original purchase receipt with the serial number, and a photo ID to the nearest Apple Store (if it has reopened) and have them remove the ID. This may have changed, so call the store before going to make sure they can help.


Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple.   -

"This Mac is Linked to A Different Apple ID"

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.