The Apple Support Community will permanently close on November 20, 2026. Starting today, the site will no longer accept new posts and is available in a read-only state.
You can continue to find trusted guidance and support on the official Apple Support site.
We want to thank the community members who have contributed their time and expertise to help others with their Apple products.
The Apple Support Community will permanently close on November 20, 2026. Starting today, the site will no longer accept new posts and is available in a read-only state.
You can continue to find trusted guidance and support on the official Apple Support site.
We want to thank the community members who have contributed their time and expertise to help others with their Apple products.
I was given a phone found in a box from a company relocating and leaving trash behind, and the lock is on with the Apple ID from the previous owner. We have tried to locate the person by calling the company and they said all those people are long gone and throw it away. Is there a way to get it off the lock screen and reset it so someone new can use it.
Without the previous owner’s cooperation, the device will remain a shiny paperweight.
It’s an intentional theft-deterrent mechanism which makes a stolen phone worthless.
How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support
You’re certainly welcome, please DO recycle the device …
… every little bit helps.
I assumed so, But figured it was worth a shot. Thanks.
What if you got the phone second hand can you remove the lock?
