Unfamiliar number on my first Apple ID

When setting up my MacBook in 2021, I created a particular Apple ID and password. I later changed it to match the Apple ID on my new phone around 2022.


Some apps on my laptop were crashing so I decided to reset to get rid of junk files and make it run smoothly again. On the activation lock, it’s asking for details from the first Apple ID. No one knows the number as all the details are on a stolen phone.


All that’s left to link me to my MacBook is my current Apple ID. This ID has all proof that the MacBook is mine. What do I do?

MacBook Air 13″, macOS 11.5

Posted on Oct 26, 2025 3:23 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Oct 26, 2025 1:40 PM

Let’s rephrase what I think you’re saying.

  • Your MacBook was purchased in 2021.
  • It was set up using an Apple Account (formerly called Apple ID). Let’s call this Account 1.
  • In 2022, you purchased a new iPhone.
  • You created a new Apple Account to use on the iPhone. Let’s call this Account 2.
  • You continued to use the MacBook, having never thoroughly cleansed it as it should have been (since the two Apple Accounts are like two different people): What to do before you sell, give away, trade in, or recycle your Mac - Apple Support
  • You intermixed the two Apple Accounts on your Mac. Account 2 has no access to Account 1’s apps or data, so problems began.
  • Account 1 became compromised as a device using it was stolen.
  • But Account 1 still owns the Mac, and its credentials are required to release its Activation Lock.
  • Therefore, your only hope, as documented here under “Start a support request”, is if you have proof of purchase documentation for your Mac.

How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support


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3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Oct 26, 2025 1:40 PM in response to tawananyasha160

Let’s rephrase what I think you’re saying.

  • Your MacBook was purchased in 2021.
  • It was set up using an Apple Account (formerly called Apple ID). Let’s call this Account 1.
  • In 2022, you purchased a new iPhone.
  • You created a new Apple Account to use on the iPhone. Let’s call this Account 2.
  • You continued to use the MacBook, having never thoroughly cleansed it as it should have been (since the two Apple Accounts are like two different people): What to do before you sell, give away, trade in, or recycle your Mac - Apple Support
  • You intermixed the two Apple Accounts on your Mac. Account 2 has no access to Account 1’s apps or data, so problems began.
  • Account 1 became compromised as a device using it was stolen.
  • But Account 1 still owns the Mac, and its credentials are required to release its Activation Lock.
  • Therefore, your only hope, as documented here under “Start a support request”, is if you have proof of purchase documentation for your Mac.

How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support


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Unfamiliar number on my first Apple ID

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