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iCloud Activation Lock issue on a brand new iPhone

I purchased an iphone that was sold to a shop that was never used and in totally brand new condition. The previous owner began the setup with the iCloud only, never verified the email address nor completed any other setup steps or updates. Including never got a carrier or carrier plan. The phone is still in the box with all none used accessories or apps, no biometrics, etc. According to the store, the seller stated he did not remember his password and did not want the phone and was the reason for selling it. How do I get this Activation Lock removed. My request was denied even after submitting receipt. scenario, the store details, and all questions asked. They did not request my id but requesting an invoice or carrier contract, Are they not understanding that the previous owner has to have the invoice and that the phone was never set up for use or carrier? I need to my next steps, because it appears they are not trying to even understand this situation or find out the information and documentation easily instead of myself. The email address and where and who purchased the phone should be accessible. This is technology. I need Apple support Management for this I feel. Please advise


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

iPhone XR, iOS 12

Posted on Oct 26, 2024 2:58 AM

Reply
1 reply

Oct 26, 2024 7:55 AM in response to AngelCharm

Apple management won't help you with this. They have their set procedure for resetting, or not resetting, devices and your situation does not pass. I have seen many, many, people in a similar situation and ultimately your best procedure when buying an iPhone is to buy it from Apple. The phone you purchased had somebody else sign into it at some stage and that designated the owner as that person. They don't have to do anything more with the phone but it has made it useless to anybody else unless that information is removed.


If this was not an official Apple approved vendor they may well not accept the receipt. Take it back to the person from whom you received it. Get them to do the things in this support article or ask for a refund --> What to do before you sell, give away, or trade in your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support There is no way to discover the owner of a device unless they left a message to display on the device when it is turned on, or the person who gave you the device knows them.


Read this article about removing Activation Lock --> How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support Unless you have the account information that set the lock, the original receipt from Apple or an Apple approved vendor, or can demonstrate legal inheritance from a deceased owner, you cannot remove the lock; return or recycle the device.


From the very bottom of Apple Trade In - Apple :

"Does Apple offer recycling?

Yes. Apple Trade In lets you recycle any Apple device (including devices from Apple-owned brands) at any Apple Store and on Apple for free. That includes your batteries and old electronic products as well as free, on-demand packaging recycling for our commercial, education, and institutional customers. When we receive your device, it will be thoroughly inspected to determine if components can be recycled or reused. Whether recycled or reused, all activities relating to the processing of your device will be managed in an environmentally responsible way."



iCloud Activation Lock issue on a brand new iPhone

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