How do I unlock a disabled or locked iPhone when the passcode is unknown?
Answer
Without the passcode, the reliable options are erase via Find My on iCloud.com or put the iPhone into recovery mode and restore with a computer. The Apple ID that was signed in on the phone is usually required afterward.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Erasing or restoring removes data that was not backed up to iCloud or a computer.
- Never share the Apple ID password or verification codes with someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
Follow these steps
Erase with Find My if available
From another device, go to iCloud.com or the Find My app, sign in with the iPhone owner's Apple ID, select the locked iPhone, and choose Erase This Device. Keep the phone on Wi-Fi or cellular if possible.
You should see: The iPhone erases and returns to the Hello / setup screen.
Use recovery mode on a computer
If Find My erase is not available, connect the iPhone to a Mac or a PC with Apple Devices/iTunes, put the phone into recovery mode using Apple's button sequence for that model, then choose Restore when prompted.
You should see: The computer restores iOS and the phone restarts to setup.
Sign in past Activation Lock
On the setup screens, enter the same Apple ID and password that were previously on the iPhone. Do not skip this step if Activation Lock appears.
You should see: Activation Lock clears and setup can continue.
Restore a backup and set a new passcode
Restore from the newest iCloud or computer backup if one exists, then create a new passcode and confirm iCloud Backup is turned on.
You should see: The phone is usable again with a known passcode and backup enabled.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Passcode entry screen, "iPhone Unavailable," or "Security Lockout," with no way into Settings.
Before you change anything: Confirm the Apple ID email used on the iPhone. Check whether a recent iCloud or computer backup exists. Expect local data that was not backed up to be erased.