If you’ve already purchased a device from a third-party store, visit that store and have them exchange it. This will ensure the device is activated and has no security issues. What can I do?įirst, if you’re thinking about buying an Apple device from an individual, perform the transaction at your carrier’s store. Someone sold me an iPhone that is still locked. It can take several days to get this information updated, you may have to provide the card on file with Apple, and you may have to provide proof of purchase (sorry, Facebook’s Marketplace and Craigslist messages won’t help here). If you need a computer and don’t have one, visit the nearest Apple location for more assistance (your cell phone carrier likely won’t have the option, so get ready for a road trip if there isn’t an Apple Store near you).Īssuming you don’t have your Apple ID, the password, or a way to get the 2FA, call Apple support for assistance. If you skip this step – or set up a passcode and change your mind about it later, you can set or reset it later. When you first set up your iPhone, you’ll be asked if you want to set up a passcode. Setting Your iPhone Passcode Initially or When You Know Your Passcode You can choose to restore it from iCloud or set it up as a brand new device. Restart the phone, sign in to your Apple ID and set it up.

Log in to iCloud and click “Find my iPhone.”Īs long as your device is connected to the internet, it will automatically erase all content and settings.

The only reason this won’t work is if you have 2FA set up and can’t receive the code to your phone number on file or another apple device. This will also work if you cannot access the phone, even if it’s with you.

If you don’t have your phone with you, but it’s still connected to wifi or cellular data, you can perform the reset remotely. Here, tap Restore from iTunes backupĪlternative Method: Factory Reset Remotely Using iCloud

In the process of restoring your iOS device, you’ll reach the Set Up screen.

Pick the most relevant backup according to date and size When the sync and backup are completed, click Restore iPhone (or relevant device)

Wait for iTunes to sync your device and make a backup.

If this doesn’t work, resort to recovery mode.)

Connect your device to the computer you sync with, and open iTunes (if you’re asked for a passcode, try another computer you’ve synced with.

If you’ve previously synced your device with iTunes, you can erase your device and its passcode on the software.

Alternative Method: Reset your passcode using iTunes

Reset iphone password lock