How can I ensure the thief cannot open my stolen Apple Watch if I erase it?

my Apple Watch was stolen and showed up in locations near Best Buy at a finance co who deny any knowledge . It was an exact location when I locked it. If I erase it, can the thief open it


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Apple Watch Series 9

Posted on Jun 24, 2024 6:58 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jun 24, 2024 11:40 PM

If you erase the watch you will remove the Activation Lock and anyone who has it can use it.


Activation Lock prevents anyone with a lost or stolen Apple device from using it.


If your watch is lost or stolen;

Protect a lost Apple Watch - Apple Support


M1 Mac mini, macOS 14.5;  Watch, series 7 GPS/cellular, watchOS 10.5; iPhone 12 Pro, iOS 17.5; TV 4th Gen, tvOS 17.5; HomePods, audioOS 17.5 and Airport Express w/ Airplay 2

1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jun 24, 2024 11:40 PM in response to Sea_Two

If you erase the watch you will remove the Activation Lock and anyone who has it can use it.


Activation Lock prevents anyone with a lost or stolen Apple device from using it.


If your watch is lost or stolen;

Protect a lost Apple Watch - Apple Support


M1 Mac mini, macOS 14.5;  Watch, series 7 GPS/cellular, watchOS 10.5; iPhone 12 Pro, iOS 17.5; TV 4th Gen, tvOS 17.5; HomePods, audioOS 17.5 and Airport Express w/ Airplay 2

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How can I ensure the thief cannot open my stolen Apple Watch if I erase it?

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