Problems with a closed Apple device? Follow the steps to process Activation Lock on iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac and Apple Watch. We look at several steps, including an Apple Activation Lock Web Tool that is new for 2021.
Activation Lock is a security feature that is enabled when Find My is enabled. Here’s how Apple describes it:
Activation Lock helps keep your device safe, even in the wrong hands, and can improve your chances of recovering it. Even if you delete your device remotely, Activation Lock can continue to prevent anyone from reactivating your device without your permission. All you have to do is like Find Me [device] turned on, and remember your Apple ID and password.
This is different from an iOS / Apple Watch password or your Mac password. You will see a screen like the image above asking for your Apple ID email address and password if you are having issues with Activation Lock.
How to bypass Activation Lock on iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, more
- If you cannot remember your Apple ID email address, search here
- Reset here if you cannot remember your Apple ID password
- If you do not remember your Apple ID password recovery security questions, call 800-APL-CARE (800-275-2273) or contact support.apple.com to see if there are other options around your account to recover.
- If you’re in the United States, there’s a new Activation Lock web tool at the bottom of the landing page. There is an option to initiate ” an Activation Lock support request. Here are the conditions:
- You must be the owner of the device Proof of ownership documentation is required. Proof of ownership must include the product serial number, IMEI or MEID.
- Your data on the device will be deleted – If Apple Activation Lock unlocks your device, all files and data stored on your device will be permanently deleted. Note that restoring your device from a local backup will reactivate the activation lock.
- We could not unlock a managed device – If your device is owned by a business or educational institution, contact your IT department or manager. We also do not accept bulk requests.
- Your device should not be in lost mode.
- In countries where the new Activation Lock tool is not available, visit an Apple Store with proof of purchase, it may be possible to remove the Activation Lock, but the device will be deleted in the process.
Other than the above steps, there are no real ways to disable Activation Lock on Apple devices. There are cases where third-party businesses are popping up that offer devices for unlocking devices like GrayShift. However, these options usually cost thousands of dollars, are often intended for law enforcement, and Apple can make the abuse useless with a software update.
One exception is DriveSavers, which claims to have a consumer-focused unlocking service for Apple devices. However, there are no prices on the website, and we can in no way vouch for it. Keep in mind that most other third-party “unlocking services” are scams or temporary solutions.
The best solution is to work through the four steps above to recover your Apple ID and disable Activation Lock legally.
Read here about Apple’s support document to read more about Activation Lock.
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