Unable to use phone after reporting lost to carrier, finding & attempted new eSIM & factory rest

Question

Level 1

4 points

Unable to use phone after reporting lost to carrier, finding & attempted new eSIM & factory rest

Lost phone, reported only to carrier, replaced with android using same number, found phone, took both phones to carrier, iPhone will not make or receive calls with number being added back to iPhone & new number on android for child. Factory reset, removed eSIM, all reports made of finding phone, got error message that phone cannot be activated but eligible for repair or trade?! At carrier provider again, carrier technical support unable to fix, apple support unable to fix?! Have never had so many problems just getting the phone to function.

Posted on Oct 19, 2025 2:27 PM

Answer 1

KiltedTim

Level 10

238,530 points

Oct 19, 2025 2:29 PM in response to BranzhanZ

The carrier blacklisted the iPhone. They are the only ones who can remove it from the blacklist. Until they do, it's useless. No, you can't trade it in or get it replaced. It's flagged as stolen by the carrier.

Answer 2

KiltedTim

Level 10

238,530 points

Oct 21, 2025 4:26 PM in response to BranzhanZ

Apple has no involvement in blacklisting phones at all.

Your carrier is the only one who can possibly help you.

Answer 3

BranzhanZ Author

Level 1

4 points

Oct 21, 2025 2:42 PM in response to BranzhanZ

Both Apple & the carrier state it is not blacklisted. All restrictions, limitations on phone have been lifted. Still unable to get working. Can’t use as a trade in if financed. Basically a brick. Carrier said until it’s paid off there’s nothing they can say. Bricked it to force early pay off & financing a new phone I think.

Unable to use phone after reporting lost to carrier, finding & attempted new eSIM & factory rest

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