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I'm trying to reset to factory settings an old ipad that was a work one. the company has since closed and let the employees keep the ipad. Problem is it is locked to an owner who's email address no longer exists. How do I get around this so the ipad can be used.
iPad (6th generation)
Notwithstanding the possibility that the iPad was centrally managed - requiring that the device is released from managed control by the System Administrator that manages the device - resetting the iPad will likely trigger an Activation Lock.
Presumably you are being prompted for your AppleID credentials - so as to satisfy the Activation Lock. You will require the AppleID an associated password that was last used to successfully activate the device - which, for the bona-fide owner, should be straightforward.
Here are the Apple support pages that outline the Activation Lock - and the only mechanisms by which it can be satisfied:
Activation Lock for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support
Turn off Activation Lock – Apple Support
As you will discover, unless you are the owner of the AppleID that was last used to activate the device, you’ll not be able to defeat or bypass the Activation Lock. With documentary evidence that you are the original owner (such as sales receipt showing the serial number), Apple may be prepared to assist - otherwise they and nobody here will be able to help you.
If you have the necessary documentation, Apple have introduced a portal though which you may be able to request release of an Activation Lock:
How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support & start an Activation Lock support request.
However, recovery of the AppleID credentials should be possible…
If you have forgotten your AppleID or associated password, these can be recovered here:
To recover your credentials, you’ll need access to any one of the following:
More information about recovery of your AppleID and associated Password:
If you forgot your Apple ID - Apple Support
If you forgot your Apple ID password - Apple Support
Notwithstanding the possibility that the iPad was centrally managed - requiring that the device is released from managed control by the System Administrator that manages the device - resetting the iPad will likely trigger an Activation Lock.
Presumably you are being prompted for your AppleID credentials - so as to satisfy the Activation Lock. You will require the AppleID an associated password that was last used to successfully activate the device - which, for the bona-fide owner, should be straightforward.
Here are the Apple support pages that outline the Activation Lock - and the only mechanisms by which it can be satisfied:
Activation Lock for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support
Turn off Activation Lock – Apple Support
As you will discover, unless you are the owner of the AppleID that was last used to activate the device, you’ll not be able to defeat or bypass the Activation Lock. With documentary evidence that you are the original owner (such as sales receipt showing the serial number), Apple may be prepared to assist - otherwise they and nobody here will be able to help you.
If you have the necessary documentation, Apple have introduced a portal though which you may be able to request release of an Activation Lock:
How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support & start an Activation Lock support request.
However, recovery of the AppleID credentials should be possible…
If you have forgotten your AppleID or associated password, these can be recovered here:
To recover your credentials, you’ll need access to any one of the following:
More information about recovery of your AppleID and associated Password:
If you forgot your Apple ID - Apple Support
If you forgot your Apple ID password - Apple Support
I found a iPad but have so far been unable to trace the open owner. I restored the device in the hope of getting the IMEI number and tracing him that way. But it's locked is there anyway I can get my email forwarded to the original owner so I can return it.
Apple will not assist with tracing the owner of a device - as, even if possible, doing so may transgress data privacy laws in many regions/countries.
You best option is to hand the device to your Lost Property Department - or the local Police - allowing the legitimate owner to come forward and claim the device.
pwcomp wrote:
I found a iPad but have so far been unable to trace the open owner. I restored the device in the hope of getting the IMEI number and tracing him that way. But it's locked is there anyway I can get my email forwarded to the original owner so I can return it.
You will not be able to track the owner, but the owner can still track the device. That is why a lost/found or other secure location is useful for the owner to come and get it.
My ipad is locked to owner but the email address used when setting it up doesn't exist anymore. How do I get in?
