How to remove multiple user names after failed Apple Account recovery?

I was hacked, my account was taken over and I couldn’t recover it. Went through all the steps and no luck. Since I had to try different user names to try and recover. It didn’t work. Now I’ve got like 7 user names or more and how can I get rid of it all.

r


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Swamped in user names

iPhone 13

Posted on Jan 23, 2026 10:40 PM

Reply
4 replies

Jan 23, 2026 11:04 PM in response to robbi178

How to remove multiple user names after failed Apple Account recovery? I was hacked, my account was taken over and I couldn’t recover it. Went through all the steps and no luck. Since I had to try different user names to try and recover. It didn’t work. Now I’ve got like 7 user names or more and how can I get rid of it all.

———-


Troubleshooting a Hacked Account:


I. Getting In to your Apple Account:


Contact Apple Support:

You need to get into your Apple Account. So, contact Apple Support. If you have a hacked iCloud account, then ask the Apple Rep if they can help you add Two-Factor Authentication. Ask them to assist you with changing your password to what it should be. Important: Perform a trial-&-error login session, prior to ending the call.

Apple Contact Info:


Screenshare with the Apple Rep:

To easily show the Apple Rep what is going on here, request a prompt for a screensharing session with the Apple Rep. That will allow them to see this firsthand, and upfront, from your perspective. Show this user through screensharing your Mac. Show them the screen of your iPhone hovering another device over oft through screensharing your iPhone.

Learn More at My User Tips: 


II. Secure your Info:

If concerned for device access, then (A)verify your devices, and (B)secure your account. Open a new eMail addressee d use that for your Apple ID.

1. Verify your Devices:

Verify that all devices are logged in to your account, by using this link: Check your Apple ID Device List to See where you're Signed in - Apple Support

then...

2. Modify your Credentials:

Having been stollen, someone lily has your credentials. So, by all means, modifying them.


III. Report Items to Apple and Others:

So, report phone calls’ and messages’ info to Apple and modify. Use my User: Using the Photos App to Report Scams - User Tip

Jan 24, 2026 1:26 AM in response to robbi178

Apple ID and Activation Lock


iCloud uses Apple ID credentials.


If you do not remember the Apple ID Password then follow the steps given in this Apple Article -> If you forgot your Apple ID password - Apple Support


If you do not remember the Apple ID then follow the steps given in this Apple Article -> If you forgot your Apple ID - Apple Support



If you are the owner or the owner has shared all information with you then to open Activation Lock:- If it is Activation locked, read here --> Turn off Activation Lock - Apple Support Activation Lock for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support


Learn how to remove a device from a previous owner's account.


If you are not the owner and do not have the Apple ID and Password then there is no way that you can get into this iPhone unless the original owner shares the Apple ID and password with you. If you are lucky you can get into this iPhone if they (owner) accidentally remove the device from their Apple ID.




Jan 24, 2026 1:26 AM in response to robbi178

If you feel an unauthorized person/app is remotely using, controlling or monitoring your device, then that is possible only if you have done one or more of the following Don'ts...


  1. Don't hand over an iPhone to kids or to a stranger without Enabling Guided Access
  2. Don't share Apple IDs
  3. Don't Jailbreak
  4. Don't share sensitive information pertaining to your device
  5. Don't give in to Phishing
  6. Don't plug in your device in Airports and Public places through third-party cables and trust the device. Beware of Juice Jacking. (Especially in India)
  7. Don't leave your iPhone unlocked and unattended in public places like offices, schools, malls, etc.


If one of the above is true then quickly change the Apple ID Password and Return iPhone settings to their defaults.


  1. Immediately change your Apple ID password
    1. Go to Settings → [your name] → Sign-In & Security → Change Password.
    2. This signs out anyone using your account.
  2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (if not already): Same menu → Two-Factor Authentication → Turn On.
  3. Check for any unknown devices linked to your account:
    1. Settings → [your name] → Devices.:
    2. If you see anything you don’t recognize, tap it → Remove from Account.
  4. Check for unknown profiles or device management:
    1. Settings → General → VPN & Device Management.
    2. If you see a profile you didn’t install, tap it → Remove Profile.
  5. Check Accessibility & Screen Sharing settings
    1. Settings → Accessibility → Switch Control, Voice Control, or Remote Control — turn off anything you didn’t set up.
    2. Settings → General → AirPlay & Handoff → make sure AirPlay is set to Ask or Never Automatically.
  6. Sign out of iCloud everywhere and reset
    1. Go to Settings → [your name] → Sign Out (you’ll need your password).
    2. Then back up your photos to iCloud or your computer.
    3. Go to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings.:
    4. Set it up as a New iPhone (not from a backup), so nothing suspicious is restored.
  7. Update iOS: Always keep the latest iOS version for security fixes.


If a person has ever had your passcode, they could’ve installed something quietly — so the full erase and setting up as new is the safest option. How to factory reset your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch





Jan 24, 2026 1:29 AM in response to robbi178

iOS devices do not provide any visible indication of how many individuals have previously used or signed into the device. Apple’s operating system is designed to prioritize privacy and a clean user experience, meaning that information about past users or usage history is not displayed on the device’s interface. Whether the device has been owned by one person or several, iOS presents itself as a fresh environment without revealing prior user counts.


Any report from a third-party app cannot be validated here in this forum.


If you encounter any challenges with third-party applications, the best course of action is to directly contact the app developer for further assistance. Here's a brief guide on how to do it:


  1. Identify the app developer.
  2. Visit their website or app store listing.
  3. Look for their contact information or support channels.
  4. Clearly describe the issue you are facing.
  5. Provide any necessary information they may need.
  6. Follow their instructions and provide feedback.
  7. Be patient and follow up if needed.


By reaching out to the app developer, you increase your chances of receiving accurate and personalized support for the challenges you're experiencing. To contact an App developer --> How to contact an app developer - Apple Support





How to remove multiple user names after failed Apple Account recovery?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.