Q: locked secondhand 4s despite removing from findmyiphone
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Apr 14, 2016 12:36 PMby alex_h1,Hello John,
Thanks for using Apple Support Communities.
From your post it sounds like you're running into a security feature called Activation Lock. The original owner will need to remove this iPhone from their Apple ID. For the instructions, including verifying if this iPhone does indeed have Activation Lock, please see the information outlined below.
What if I purchase a device that is still linked to the previous owner's account?
Contact the previous owner as soon as possible and ask them to erase the device and remove it from their account. Learn how to remove a device from a previous owner's account.
How do I check for Activation Lock before purchasing a used device?
When you buy an iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Apple Watch from someone other than Apple or an authorized Apple reseller, it is up to you to ensure that the device is erased and no longer linked to the previous owner’s account.
You can check the current Activation Lock status of a device when you visit icloud.com/activationlock from any Mac or PC.
Or you can follow the steps below to make sure that you can use the device you purchase:
- Turn the device on and slide to unlock.
- If the passcode lock screen or the Home screen appears, the device hasn't been erased. Ask the seller to completely erase the device by going to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. Don't take ownership of any used iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch until it's been erased.
- Begin the device setup process.
- After choosing a language, choosing a country, and connecting to a network, the device will begin activation. If you're asked for the previous owner’s Apple ID and password, the device is still linked to their account. Hand the device back to the seller and ask them to enter their password. If the previous owner isn't present, they can remove the device from their account by signing in to icloud.com/find. Don't take ownership of any used iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch until it has been removed from the previous owner’s account.
You will know that a device is ready for you to use when you're asked to “Set up your iPhone," “Set up your iPad," or “Set up your iPod” the first time you turn it on.
Find My iPhone Activation Lock
Take care.
