How to bypass Activation Lock on an M1 iMac without a purchase receipt?

Question

Level 1

4 points

How to bypass Activation Lock on an M1 iMac without a purchase receipt?

Hey there, I got an M1 iMac from a friend who had it lying around. He doesn't have access to the Apple ID associated with it, he just can't seem to remember the email address it was registered on. It is obviously Activation Locked and I've asked him for a purchase receipt to raise a request with apple support. However, in our country there are no official apple stores or verified resellers like amazon or bestbuy. Even if I do procure a receipt (highly unlikely from years ago) it will be an informal one. What are my options?

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: iMac Activation Lock

Posted on Feb 3, 2026 7:36 AM

Reply

Answer 1

Allan Jones

Level 9

78,458 points

Feb 3, 2026 7:49 AM in response to khizer273

Your friend would have to do it, not you. If he finds the receipt, then he will have to work with Apple. Fortunately given your regional support issues, this article:

How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support

suggests he could do it online.

Once activated again, he must follow instructions in this Apple article:

What to do before you sell or give away your Apple TV 4K or Apple TV HD - Apple Support

Otherwise, your ability to use the computer will be very limited.

Reply

Answer 2

tbirdvet

Level 6

17,205 points

Feb 3, 2026 7:42 AM in response to khizer273

Since your friend is unable to provide login info you are probably out of luck. The Mac is locked down.

Reply