Trying to use an iPhone but stuck on the Activation Lock screen?
This security feature protects stolen devices, but it can also block access if you don’t have the correct Apple ID and password.
If you bought a second-hand iPhone, forgot your Apple ID details, or got locked out for any reason, this guide will help.
We’ll explain the most effective ways to remove Activation Lock and regain full access to your device.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- How to check if an iPhone is locked before buying it
- Ways to remove Activation Lock legally and securely
- How to unlock an iPhone without the previous owner’s help
- Free and paid methods that actually work
- What scams to watch out for
Follow these steps to unlock your iPhone safely and avoid common mistakes.
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Key takeaways
Activation Lock is a security feature introduced by Apple to prevent unauthorized use of an iPhone, especially in cases of loss or theft. It requires the original Apple ID and password to unlock the device. For more details, refer to Apple’s official guide on Activation Lock.
Methods to Remove Activation Lock:
- Employing Third-Party Services
Reputable services can remove Activation Lock, though they may charge a fee. However, be aware that some unlocking services operate in a legally grey area and may violate Apple’s terms of service. Additionally, providing personal information to unverified services can put your data at risk of identity theft. - Contacting the Previous Owner
If possible, reach out to the previous owner to remove the device from their iCloud account remotely. - Use Apple’s Support
With valid proof of purchase, Apple Support may assist in unlocking the device. - Using DNS Bypass (Temporary Solution)
This method allows limited access to device features without fully removing the lock.
Legal & Security Warning
Bypassing Activation Lock without authorization may be illegal in some regions. Apple’s official stance is that only the original owner or an authorized service provider can remove Activation Lock. Using unauthorized services could also violate Apple’s policies, leading to your device being permanently locked or blacklisted by carriers.
Removing Activation Lock on a second-hand iPhone
If you bought a locked iPhone, ask the previous owner to remove the Activation Lock. They can do this in person or remotely by following Apple’s official steps on removing a device from iCloud.
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To remove Activation Lock, they need to:
- Visit appleid.apple.com and sign in.
Apple account website - In the menu, select Devices.
Device list page - Choose the iPhone to unlock.
- Click Remove from Account to complete the process.
Removing the iPhone 12 from your iCloud account
This allows you to access the iPhone as a new user.
Turn off Find My to disable Activation Lock
If Activation Lock prevents you from using your own iPhone, turn off Find My using your Apple ID and password.
Learn how to turn off Find My on Apple’s support page.
If you’ve forgotten your Apple ID, you can reset it via Apple’s iForgot tool.
To find your Apple ID:
- Check iCloud or Media and Purchases on another Apple device.
- Check System Preferences > Apple ID on a Mac.
- On Apple TV, go to Settings > Apple ID.
For more help, see How to reset a forgotten Apple ID.
Bypassing iPhone Activation Lock on your own
If the previous owner is unavailable, use an activation lock bypass tool or service. Be cautious, as many online unlocking services are scams.
Common scams include:
- Downloadable tools
- Hackers and hacks
- Fake online tools claiming to connect with Apple
To find out more, see iCloud Activation Lock removal from iPhone
Prices
iPhone iCloud unlock prices range from $10 to $50 USD. Many services only display the deposit, not the total fee. Before starting, ask for the full cost to avoid unexpected charges.
Pros and cons of paying for an unlock
Pros
- Full iPhone access
- Permanent solution
- Easy to use with no technical skills needed
Cons
- Risk of scams
- Fees apply
- May take 24 hours to several days to do
Activation Lock removal tools and services compared
| Service | Price | Time Required | Success Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| iBypasser | $39.95 | Instant | High |
| DirectUnlocks | $28.99 | 1-5 days | High |
| IMEInow | $28.99 | 1-5 days | High |
| AppleiPhoneUnlock | $28.99 | 1-5 days | High |
| iCloud Bypass Tool | Free | Varies | Low |
| iCloudin | Free | Varies | Zero |
For a detailed comparison of these services, see our full review of iCloud bypass tools.
Free iCloud unlocking instructions
If you don’t have Apple credentials, try the DNS method to remove Activation Lock for free.
Follow these steps:
- Set up your iPhone until you reach the Choose Wi-Fi Network screen.
- Select the “i” icon next to your Wi-Fi network.
- Tap Configure DNS.
- Choose Manual.
- Tap Add Server and enter the IP address closest to your location:
- USA: 104.154.51.7
- South America: 35.199.88.219
- Europe: 104.155.28.90
- Asia: 104.155.220.58
- Australia: 35.189.47.23
- Join your Wi-Fi network. When the phone attempts to activate, press the Back button multiple times to access the DNS screen.
- You will be logged in to the DNS server and you will see the iCloud bypass screen showing iCloudDNSBypass.net.
Removing Activation Lock using online services
DirectUnlocks offers iCloud removal services with a fee of approximately $35 USD.
Provide your iPhone’s IMEI on the website, select your device model, agree to terms, and pay the fee.
Removal is typically completed within 24 hours.
Follow these steps to complete the unlock:
- Visit the DirectUnlocks website.
- Enter your iPhone’s IMEI number in the designated field.
- In the device model drop-down menu, select your iPhone model.
- Click Unlock iCloud! to proceed.
- Agree to the terms and conditions.
- Choose your preferred payment method and pay the fee.
Within approximately 24 hours, you will receive an email confirmation indicating that the unlock process is complete.
This email will confirm that the Activation Lock has been successfully removed, allowing you full access to your device.
Software tools that bypass iCloud lock
Several tools claim to bypass the Activation Lock, though quality varies.
Our tests showed iBypasser as the best option, with features like:
- Free trial
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Easy installation
- Regular updates
- Responsive support
Myths vs. facts about iCloud lock
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| Activation Lock can be removed for free by any software. | Most free tools are scams. Only Apple or a legitimate unlocking service can remove the lock. Beware of fake software that claims instant removal. |
| You can unlock any iPhone using a simple hack. | There is no universal hack. Each unlocking method depends on the device’s status, ownership, and whether it was reported lost or stolen. |
| Jailbreaking your iPhone will remove Activation Lock. | Jailbreaking can modify iOS but does not bypass Activation Lock. The lock is tied to Apple’s servers, not just the device’s software. |
| Apple will unlock any device if you ask them. | Apple will only remove Activation Lock if you provide proof of original purchase. Check Apple’s Activation Lock support for details on eligibility and required documents.. They will not unlock devices flagged as lost or stolen. |
| If I buy a locked iPhone, I can easily unlock it myself. | If the previous owner does not remove the lock, you may need professional help. Many online services have hidden costs or fail to deliver results. |
| Once unlocked, the iPhone stays unlocked forever. | Some methods, such as DNS bypass, only offer temporary access. A full iCloud unlock must be done through official means to be permanent. |
| All iCloud unlocking services are scams. | While many services are scams, some legitimate services do exist. Research and read reviews before paying for an unlocking service. |
Apple’s theft prevention security
Activation Lock prevents others from using your iPhone without your permission.
It’s part of the Find My app, which uses GPS and Wi-Fi to locate your device and allows you to lock it remotely.
FAQ
Got questions about Activation Lock? Here are the most common concerns and answers to help you unlock your iPhone safely.
Can I remove Activation Lock on my iPhone without the previous owner’s Apple ID?
If you don’t have the Apple ID and password, the best option is to contact the previous owner and ask them to remove the device from their iCloud account remotely. If that’s not possible, your only legitimate options are Apple support (with proof of purchase) or a paid unlocking service.
Can Apple unlock an iPhone if I forgot my Apple ID password?
If you forgot your password, you can use Apple’s iForgot website to reset it. Apple will only unlock an iPhone if you can provide proof of purchase showing you are the rightful owner.
Is it legal to bypass Activation Lock?
Bypassing Activation Lock is only legal if you are the rightful owner of the device. Apple strictly enforces security policies to prevent stolen devices from being unlocked. If an iPhone was reported lost or stolen, any attempt to unlock it may be illegal and punishable by law in some countries.
Always check local regulations before using third-party services.
What happens if I buy a second-hand iPhone with Activation Lock?
If you purchased a locked iPhone, try to contact the seller and request they remove it from their iCloud account. If they refuse or are unresponsive, your options for unlocking the device may be limited.
Will unlocking Activation Lock restore all iPhone features?
If you fully remove Activation Lock through Apple or an official unlocking service, your iPhone will function normally. However, some bypass methods (like DNS tricks) only provide limited access to apps and settings.
Can I bypass Activation Lock for free?
Some free methods, like the DNS bypass trick, provide limited access but do not fully remove Activation Lock. Be cautious of scams that claim to offer free, permanent iCloud unlocking.
Will jailbreaking an iPhone remove Activation Lock?
No, jailbreaking does not bypass Activation Lock. Activation Lock is linked to Apple’s servers, meaning a jailbreak will not remove or disable it.
Does a factory reset remove Activation Lock on an iPhone?
No, a factory reset does not remove Activation Lock. After resetting, the iPhone will still require the original Apple ID and password to complete the setup process.
Can an iPhone be blacklisted after bypassing Activation Lock?
If the iPhone was reported lost or stolen, it may still be blacklisted by carriers even after bypassing Activation Lock. This means it could be blocked from making calls or using mobile data.
Final Thoughts
Activation Lock is an essential security feature, but it can cause issues for second-hand buyers or users who forget their Apple ID.
Use official Apple methods when possible. If that fails, carefully research unlocking services before making a purchase.
