How do I check if used iphone is stolen

I'm looking to buy a used iPhone and want to know if it has been stolen or not. How do I do that?

Posted on Feb 20, 2017 9:05 AM

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Posted on Feb 20, 2017 12:39 PM

There used to be an official Apple page where you could check the phone's Activation Lock Status, but it was summarily removed cause the miscreants were somehow abusing the feature. So anything mentioning that page is outdated and of historical nature. If you're in a face-to-face with the seller, just watch them carry out each of the steps listed on top here (can skip #2 if they don't want): What to do before selling or giving away your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support


If they cannot complete them, then there's something dodgy on the phone. Check also here: Find My iPhone Activation Lock - Apple Support

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Feb 20, 2017 12:39 PM in response to Tace.Hart

There used to be an official Apple page where you could check the phone's Activation Lock Status, but it was summarily removed cause the miscreants were somehow abusing the feature. So anything mentioning that page is outdated and of historical nature. If you're in a face-to-face with the seller, just watch them carry out each of the steps listed on top here (can skip #2 if they don't want): What to do before selling or giving away your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support


If they cannot complete them, then there's something dodgy on the phone. Check also here: Find My iPhone Activation Lock - Apple Support

Feb 20, 2017 12:27 PM in response to Tace.Hart

Hello,


I dont believe Apple has a article on this.


I will always suggest buying any Apple product from Apple's website, an Apple Store, a Apple Authorized Reseller or someone trustworthy such as a family member. With this you know what you are getting.


If you are buying from a random person/website the seller can lie to you about the iPhone which may cause more problems.


Find Locations - Apple


You can also check out a Apple's refurbished website(U.S. site) here:

Refurbished and Clearance - Apple Certified

Jun 9, 2017 12:13 AM in response to Tace.Hart

You can use a service from apple called "Activation Lock". Usually the previous owner of the device will set a lock on their if it is lost or stolen from them. In case if they are selling the phone, they will not be doing that. You can check whether the activation lock is on for a device by just logging into apples find page. Find My iPhone Activation Lock - Apple Support,

I have read this info on a blog http://technicles.com/apple-activation-lock-service-to-your-rescue-check-for-sto len-iphone-ipad-ipod/

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How do I check if used iphone is stolen

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