If you’re locked out of your iPhone, iPad, or Mac due to iCloud Activation Lock, there are ways to regain access—without spending money.
This guide will walk you through legitimate, no-cost methods to remove Activation Lock, whether you’ve forgotten your Apple ID credentials or purchased a second-hand device that’s still linked to the previous owner’s account.
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Key takeaways
Here is a quick summary of what I think are the most important points to know:
You can remove the iCloud Activation Lock for free if you know the Apple ID and password associated with the device. If you don’t have these details, don’t panic—there are other solutions you can try.
If you bought a used iPhone, iPad, or Mac, the quickest way to unlock it is by asking the seller to remotely turn off Find My on the device.
Apple Support can remove Activation Lock for free if your device hasn’t been reported as stolen, and you can prove ownership with the original purchase receipt.
Older Apple devices may allow you to bypass iCloud Lock via DNS settings, which doesn’t fully unlock the device but provides limited access.
iBypasser is the best iCloud bypass tool based on testing. You can try it for free to see if it works before purchasing.
Avoid free iCloud unlock services like Unlock Maker, iCloud Bypass Online, and The Wire Feed. Testing showed that they don’t work and may damage your device.
If these free methods don’t work, there are alternative solutions, including paid services or requesting a refund from the seller.
First, check if your device is stolen goods
If your iPhone, iPad, or Mac is asking for a previous owner’s Apple ID, the first step is to check whether it has been reported stolen.
How to Check if an iPhone is Stolen
If you are in the USA:
- Use the Stolen Phone Checker website.
This is a website that lets U.S. consumers check the status of any iPhone model by typing in its MEID/ESN/IMEI number (this is your device’s serial number). You can have up to 5 checks per day.
If you are elsewhere in the world:
- Use IMEI.info – although you can only check using the IMEI-based serial number on this website.
IMEI.info works for English speaking countries – such as the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand – and claims to work for 880 mobile networks from over 230 other countries too.
If your device is marked as stolen, Apple will not remove the Activation Lock. If you paid using a credit card or PayPal, you may be able to get a refund.
If the device isn’t stolen, proceed with the following unlocking methods.
Method 1: Use a removal tool
One of the most effective ways to bypass the iCloud Activation Lock is by using a reliable removal tool. These tools work by jailbreaking the device, allowing you to bypass the lock screen without needing the original Apple ID or password.
Why Use a Removal Tool?
Removal tools like iBypasser are highly recommended because they are user-friendly, regularly updated, and have excellent customer reviews. While they are not completely free, most tools offer a trial version, allowing you to test if the software will work with your device before committing to a purchase.
When to Use a Removal Tool
If you are comfortable with technology and have access to a computer, a removal tool is one of the best options for unlocking your device. However, if you prefer a hands-off approach, consider using a professional unlocking service.
How to try iBypasser for free
1. Visit the iBypasser website (using the button above), then click the Free Download button to get a free trial.
2. Install and launch the software.
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3. Select Unlock Apple ID.
4. Connect your iPhone or iPad to your computer using a USB cable..
5. The trial software will check if your device is compatible.
6. If it works, you can purchase a license to complete the unlock.
Not technically minded?
If you’re not comfortable using a tool or don’t have a computer, consider using a paid unlocking service instead.
Key Benefits of iBypasser:
- Free Trial
Test the software’s compatibility before purchasing. - Unlimited Attempts
Make multiple unlocking attempts without extra charges. - Money-Back Guarantee
Refunds are available within 30 days if the tool doesn’t work for your device.
Method 2: Ask the seller to disable the Activation Lock
If you’ve purchased a second-hand device that is locked, contacting the seller should be your first step. Often, they can easily remove the Activation Lock remotely.
How the Seller Can Unlock Your Device
- Log in to iCloud.com.
- Go to Find My iPhone.
- Select the locked device and click Erase iPhone.
- Once erased, click Remove from Account.
If you need help asking the seller, use our free email template to explain the steps to them. Simply add their email address on the email template that pops open.
Method 3: Free iCloud Activation Lock removal tools
Summary: Beware of Free iCloud Unlock Scams
Many websites claim to offer free iCloud Activation Lock removal, but most are scams. Services like Unlock Maker and iCloud Bypass Online often mislead users with false promises and pose serious risks.
These sites typically:
- Collect personal data under false pretenses.
- Ask users to download fake software that may contain malware.
- Require surveys or ad clicks without providing an actual unlock.
To protect yourself, avoid these so-called “free” unlocking services, as they rarely work and often compromise your security.
Free tools compared
Many websites claim to offer free iCloud unlock tools, but after testing them, most were either scams, outdated, or not actually free.
Below is a comparison of the most mentioned free tools and their effectiveness.
| Tool | Available? | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| iCL0udin | No | Tool no longer available. |
| iCloud Generator | No | Tool no longer available. |
| DoulCi Activator | No | Tool no longer available. |
| iCloud Activation Bypass Tool | No | Tool no longer available. |
| Gadget Wide | Yes | Contains viruses. Do not use. |
| Open My iCloud | Yes | Scam designed for ads. |
| CheckM8 | Yes | Paid tool. Not free. |
| iCloud Assistant Pro Enterprise | Yes | Scam designed for ads. |
| UnlockMaker | Yes | Scam that steals financial data. |
UnlockMaker
UnlockMaker claims to remove Activation Lock for free. However, during testing, it required users to enter personal details, including IMEI and credit card information.
The tool then signs users up for a recurring **$80/month** subscription to an unrelated service, with many reports of unauthorized charges.
Pros
- None.
Cons
- Scam that steals credit card details.
- Not actually free.
- No actual iCloud unlocking performed.
Verdict
Avoid UnlockMaker. It is a scam that collects financial details without providing an unlock.
iCL0udin
iCL0udin was once a free tool for older iOS devices, but it is no longer available. Fake download links often lead to phishing scams.
Pros
- Worked on iOS 7-9.
Cons
- No longer available.
- Fake versions contain malware.
Verdict
Do not download. iCL0udin is no longer functional, and any links found online are likely scams.
iCloud Generator
iCloud Generator claims to change a device’s IMEI to bypass iCloud. However, IMEI numbers cannot be changed, proving this tool is a scam.
Pros
- None.
Cons
- Fake tool with malware.
- IMEI modification is impossible.
Verdict
iCloud Generator is fraudulent. Downloading it may infect your computer with viruses.
DoulCi Activator
DoulCi was an iOS 7 exploit that worked briefly in 2014 before Apple patched it. Fake downloads now contain viruses.
Pros
- Once worked on iOS 7.
Cons
- Defunct since 2014.
- Fake downloads contain malware.
Verdict
DoulCi Activator is obsolete. Do not attempt to download it.
CheckM8
CheckM8 is widely mentioned as a free tool, but it is actually **a paid service costing $25-$65**.
Pros
- Legitimate software.
Cons
- Not free.
- Expensive compared to alternatives.
Verdict
If you are looking for a free tool, **CheckM8 is not an option**. Consider alternatives.
iCloud Assistant Pro Enterprise
This tool requires users to enter personal details and complete surveys, often leading to phishing attempts.
Pros
- None.
Cons
- Fake unlock service.
- Steals personal data.
Verdict
iCloud Assistant Pro Enterprise is a **scam** and should be avoided.
Method 4: Bypass the iCloud lock via DNS server
On older Apple devices, you can bypass (but not remove) Activation Lock using a DNS trick.
This allows limited use of the device for features like:
- Sending messages.
- Watching videos.
- Using social media.
How to Use the DNS Bypass:
- Restart your device and begin the setup process.
- On the Wi-Fi selection screen, choose i next to the network.
- Go to Configure DNS > Manual.
- Enter a DNS server based on your region:
- USA: 104.154.51.7
- Europe: 104.155.28.90
- Asia: 104.155.220.58
- Oceania: 104.155.220.58
- Other locations: 78.100.17.60
- Go back and connect to Wi-Fi.
- The bypass screen should appear, allowing limited use of the device.
This method does not fully unlock iCloud but can provide temporary access.
Method 5: Ask Apple Support for help
If you can provide proof of ownership, Apple may unlock your device for free.
What you need to unlock through Apple:
- The original purchase receipt.
- Proof of ownership transfer (e.g., an eBay transaction or invoice).
- A device that has not been reported as lost or stolen.
Visit an Apple Store or contact Apple Support to make a request.
What to do if these free methods fail
If none of these free methods work, you still have options:
- Use a Paid Unlock Service
Reliable services can remove Activation Lock in a few days. - Request a Refund from the Seller
If you used PayPal or a credit card, you might be able to recover your money. - Sell the Device for Parts
If unlocking isn’t possible, selling the device for spare parts may be an option.
FAQ’s
How does the locking system work?
When an iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, or iPod Touch is ‘iCloud locked’ it means that the iCloud activation lock security system has been triggered on the device.
If you try to use a locked phone you will be presented with an on-screen message requesting the owner sign in with their Apple ID and iCloud password. Once the signed in the device is unlocked and can be used normally.
Issues occur when buyers of second-hand devices try to set them up and are asked for the original owner’s Apple ID. The device is unusable until the original owner’s details are entered.
Can a security sealed device be fixed?
The security system that locks an iPhone or iPad can be dealt with in a number of ways. You may be able to have your device unlocked by asking the original owner, or by downloading a software tool to help you get past the activation lock. However, doing a factory reset will not help remove phones’ Apple ID and password.
Other techniques suggested on other websites that do not work include using iTunes to get past the account password. Connecting your device to iTunes will not help it will only allow you to backup iOS data to a computer.
There will be a way to get your device up and running as long as you use one of the techniques in this guide.
How does the Activation Lock work?
The iCloud activation lock stops unauthorized access, use, or reformatting of your Apple device. It was created to prevents thieves from stealing and reselling devices.
The iCloud lock works in conjunction with another Apple tool called “Find My”, which allows you to locate your missing device. It shows your device’s location on a map making it easy to track down.
Both of these features come enabled by default on all iPhones, iPads, and some Apple Watch models and I recommend it is not disabled so your device and its contents are secured.
Our guide explains what to do if you find yourself with an iCloud locked device.
Is it safe to buy an iCloud locked iOS device?
You may find that an Activation Locked phone is far cheaper to buy than an unlocked one. This is for a good reason. It is really hard, time-consuming, and awkward to get around the lock.
Indeed, in some circumstances, it may not be possible to eradicate the Apple ID from the iPhone without the original purchaser’s help at all leaving you with a device that can’t be used properly. This means that it is risky buying iCloud locked devices as you can’t be sure that you can use them.
The risk can be managed to a certain extent, but there is still a possibility that you end up with a device you are unhappy with. If you are unwilling to take the risk then it would be better to buy a device that is not iCloud locked.
Is every locked device stolen?
No, not all devices displaying an activation lock screen are stolen. The iCloud lock may have been triggered accidentally by the previous owner.
For example, it is quite common for sellers to forget to wipe and reset their old device properly before selling it resulting in you buying a locked iPhone that you need to iCloud unlock. The seller may have simply:
- Forgot to turn off Find My
- Forgot to sign out of iCloud
- Had their Apple ID disabled
All of these mistakes will trigger the activation lock when trying to setup the device.
If you’re buying a used device be sure to ask whether the activation lock has been disabled. If possible get them to provide proof before agreeing to buy.
Wrap up
So it is possible to take an iCloud activation locked device and remove the lock. This allows you to take an iCloud locked Apple product and set it up to use with your own Apple ID.
You may need some help from Apple or the original owner but you can perform the activation unlock for free. Failing that you can pay to use one of the reliable services.
Knowing more about iCloud, the activation lock, and what is possible is vital in your efforts so it is a good idea to find out more:
- Get details on what iCloud is and what it does.
- Knowing the steps to setup and configure iCloud on your device.
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