If I lose access to all logged in Apple devices, how could I access my account without 2FA?

Hello, I hope everyone's well.


I have three different models of Apple devices that I'm logged into, and receive my 2FA requests on them. If I were to hypothetically lose access to all three devices (for whatever reasons), would there be any way to access my Apple ID again?


I know my password and 100% will not forget it. I have two recovery contacts set up - and maybe I'm just being stupid - but I'm not entirely sure if that's intended for scenarios like this, as it seems to be more for if you forget your password (which wouldn't be the issue in this scenario). I also have a recovery code, which wouldn't be on hand, but would be in a secure location I could access at a later date.


After losing these 3 devices, and - importantly - assuming I will know my password, would I be able to get the recovery contacts to approve me logging into a newly purchased iPhone, that has no previous connection to my Apple ID? Or use the recovery code?


I have Advanced Data Protection enabled, if that affects this at all.


Apologies if this has an obvious answer, I will be in a precarious situation later this year and would like to be 100% certain I can access my account at a later date if for whatever reason, I lose/destroy all of my logged in devices.


Thank you very much, have a nice day

iPhone 13 mini, iOS 17

Posted on Jul 13, 2024 1:40 PM

Reply
2 replies

Jul 13, 2024 1:44 PM in response to REYESalice

Read the below for all the options.


If you can still sign into your account on another device you can investigate adding more ways to get a code such as multiple telephone numbers where you can receive a text or a phone call. This is based on the section "About trusted phone numbers and trusted devices" in the article: Two-factor authentication for Apple ID - Apple Support


To see, add, or change your trusted phone numbers use one of these methods:

● On your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch: Go to Settings > your name > Password & Security. Next to Trusted Phone Number, tap Edit.

● On a Mac computer choose Apple menu  > System Settings (or System Preferences), then click your name (or Apple ID). Click Password & Security, then add or remove a trusted phone number.

● Using a web browser:

1) Go to https://appleid.apple.com and sign in.

2) Follow security options until you find one letting you change trusted numbers,

3) Click "+" to add a new number (you may be required to verify this number).

4) If you wish to remove an old number, click "-" next to the number.


Similar information for the iPhone can be found here --> Use two-factor authentication for your Apple ID on iPhone - Apple Support


If you had set up an Account Recovery Contact ( Set up an account recovery contact - Apple Support ) you can also get a code that way.


In a situation where a non-functioning device with cellular service was the only trusted device, transfer the cellular service to another device so you can receive a verification code on the other device instead.


If you can’t sign in, access a trusted device, reset your password, or receive verification codes, you can request account recovery to regain access to your account. This article explains how to recover your Apple ID after a waiting period - How to use account recovery when you can’t reset your Apple ID password - Apple Support One tip to using account recovery it to look for options in small blue letters beneath the normal log-in items if you cannot complete the requested information. The post by shoeluvr13 at this link provides additional detail about the account recovery process: Activation Lockout Issues - Apple Community


You should consider making sure you have multiple trusted devices and telephone numbers (ask a friend or a relative).


You may also wish to read the articles 'Two-factor authentication for Apple ID' ( Two-factor authentication for Apple ID - Apple Support ) and 'Get a verification code and sign in with two-factor authentication' ( Get a verification code and sign in with two-factor authentication - Apple Support ). Various sections contain information that is useful in understanding about the trusted devices (an iPhone, iPad, or Mac that Apple knows is yours) system, and how to get a verification code on a trusted device or at a telephone number.


This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

If I lose access to all logged in Apple devices, how could I access my account without 2FA?

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