Unable to log in Apple ID "iPhone is locked owner"


I have an iPhone 7 which i have previously gifted to my ex girlfriend, i have gotten the phone back since, but her apple id is stuck on the phone. As i was informed the account was deleted since, but it still requires its password to factory reset or do anything like that. I have tried every option to reset none of them worked, cant do factory reset because the location is enabled and it needs password also. Is there a way to work around this?




[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Earlier iPhone models

Posted on Aug 6, 2024 1:08 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Aug 6, 2024 1:43 PM

Unless you can get her to unlock it with her Apple ID and password your only alternative is to ask Apple to reset it. Apple can completely reset a device if a person can provide sufficient evidence of valid ownership. Check the requirements and steps at: Activation Lock support request - https://al-support.apple.com/#/additional-support Apple says, "Proof of ownership documentation is required," but does not detail what currently constitutes proof other than it “must include the product serial number, IMEI or MEID.” Apple may typically require the original receipt* issued by Apple or an Apple Authorized Reseller. If Apple resets the device this will give you access to the device but won't restore access to the account used to lock it. There is nothing that can be done to expedite an Activation Lock request.


*Apple recommends you "Keep your receipt after you buy an Apple device" --> Keep your receipt after you buy an Apple device - Apple Support


2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Aug 6, 2024 1:43 PM in response to Drevyn

Unless you can get her to unlock it with her Apple ID and password your only alternative is to ask Apple to reset it. Apple can completely reset a device if a person can provide sufficient evidence of valid ownership. Check the requirements and steps at: Activation Lock support request - https://al-support.apple.com/#/additional-support Apple says, "Proof of ownership documentation is required," but does not detail what currently constitutes proof other than it “must include the product serial number, IMEI or MEID.” Apple may typically require the original receipt* issued by Apple or an Apple Authorized Reseller. If Apple resets the device this will give you access to the device but won't restore access to the account used to lock it. There is nothing that can be done to expedite an Activation Lock request.


*Apple recommends you "Keep your receipt after you buy an Apple device" --> Keep your receipt after you buy an Apple device - Apple Support


Aug 6, 2024 5:45 AM in response to Drevyn

If your iPhone 7 is still locked with your ex-girlfriend's Apple ID, it's likely linked to her Apple ID via Activation Lock. To resolve this issue, contact the previous owner, provide necessary details, and visit Apple Support. Provide proof of ownership. Alternative methods include checking if the device is still linked, visiting an Apple Store, performing a factory reset without an Apple ID, or using DFU mode for troubleshooting. However, bypassing Activation Lock without the Apple ID credentials is generally not possible due to Apple's robust security measures.

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Unable to log in Apple ID "iPhone is locked owner"

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