A family friend, friend gave me an iPhone 11 recently and it is locked to the owner, I know the serial number is that enough valid proof of ownership for apple to completely erase it?

Question

Level 1

4 points

A family friend, friend gave me an iPhone 11 recently and it is locked to the owner, I know the serial number is that enough valid proof of ownership for apple to completely erase it?

I got a phone from a friend of a friend (sketchy ik ) it was cheap so I bought but I didn't know it was locked to owner at the time I dont have a receipt or anything and I have no way of getting into contact with this guy... is providing the serial number, enough evidence of valid ownership for apple to erase the iPhone? (its an iPhone 11 if this helps )

iPhone 8, iOS 16

Posted on Feb 24, 2024 11:49 AM

Reply

Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Mac Jim ID

Community+ 2026

Level 9

64,694 points

Feb 24, 2024 11:52 AM in response to Lily_000

No the serial number will not help and Apple will not unlock it unless you have the original purchase receipt from them or Authorized Apple seller that shows your name. You will never be able to use the device without the original owner credentials. The owner will be able to track the device, so they will know where it is. Chalk it up as a lesson learned.

Reply

Answer 2

Bob Timmons

Level 10

185,642 points

Feb 24, 2024 12:51 PM in response to Lily_000

Well, so far the phone.....which was likely stolen......is being passed around among a number of people.

None of them......including you.....will be able to use the phone at all.

Drop the phone off at the police station or turn it in to the recycling place.

Reply

A family friend, friend gave me an iPhone 11 recently and it is locked to the owner, I know the serial number is that enough valid proof of ownership for apple to completely erase it?

Similar questions