Concern About Possible Device Swap and Unauthorized Apple ID Access

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Concern About Possible Device Swap and Unauthorized Apple ID Access

Dear Apple Support,

I need help regarding a possible unauthorized access and potential device replacement involving an iPhone 12 that we purchased as a gift for my husband’s daughter.

We bought a genuine iPhone 12 and gave it to her, and the device was originally set up under our Apple ID. Later, her mother took the phone while she was grounded. After a few days, when we got the child back, the phone was returned to us — but something appears to be wrong.

Here are the issues:

• The iPhone had been reset to factory settings without our knowledge.

• “Find My iPhone” was turned off, even though it was originally enabled under our Apple ID.

• We received an email notification that the Apple ID was removed or changed during that time.

• Although the serial number (FFM*******0Q) still appears valid, we are suspicious that the device might have been swapped with another iPhone that is not the original one we gave.

I have now successfully recovered access to the Apple ID account, but I would like Apple to:

1. Check if there were unauthorized logins or changes to the Apple ID linked to that device.

2. Confirm whether the device with serial number FFM*******0Q is still the same physical iPhone originally linked to our account.

3. Help us verify if this iPhone is a legitimate, original device, and whether it was properly removed from our Apple ID or tampered with.

We also have proof of purchase, and can provide any documents you may need.

Thank you very much for your help.

Kind regards,

Aleksandra

Gmail: mail@gmail.com

iPhone 12, iOS 18

Posted on Jun 28, 2025 2:14 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

brbo

Level 8

42,807 points

Jun 30, 2025 8:05 PM in response to E558

Re: Concern About Possible Device Swap and Unauthorized Apple ID Access to Apple Support

We are all Apple users, like yourself, in this community, .so no-one here has access to your accounts and details.

We'd still like to help, however.

It is unlikely anyone from Apple will read your post here. (You could provide Apple with a link to this post.)

A few suggestions, and a few avenues for contacting Apple follow:

Apple Support's articles: What to do: If you think your Apple Account has been compromised - Apple Support

and

You might want to scroll to: "How to protect your Apple account and devices" in this article below:

Recognize and avoid social engineering schemes including phishing messages, phony support calls, and other scams - Apple Support

For a child under 13 you might want to: Use parental controls on your child's iPhone or iPad - Apple Support

Info. on Security and your Apple Account - Apple Support

To contact Apple Support:(online chat / phone / mail etc.)

You could start on their website: Official Apple Support or if you wish: in your Apple Account

or

Apple Account Support Website: Apple Account - Official Apple Support has info. / support / contact options.

________

If needed::Apple phone numbers around the world :See: Contact Apple Support - Apple Support

(You can scroll down to select your country or region)

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Concern About Possible Device Swap and Unauthorized Apple ID Access

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