iPhone Activation Lock can be a real pain if you don’t know the Apple ID and password associated with the device. This can happen if you buy a used iPhone or if you forget your own Apple ID information. Fortunately, there are a few ways to remove Activation Lock without an Apple ID, and one of them is completely free. In this article, we will show you how to do it.
The first step is to check if your iPhone is eligible for Activation Lock removal. To do this, you will need the IMEI or serial number of the device. You can find this information on the back of the iPhone or in the Settings app under General > About. Once you have the IMEI or serial number, you can visit Apple’s Activation Lock support page and enter the information. If your iPhone is eligible for Activation Lock removal, you will be given instructions on how to proceed.
If your iPhone is not eligible for Activation Lock removal through Apple, you can try using a third-party service. There are a number of companies that offer this service, but not all of them are created equal. It is important to do your research and choose a reputable company. Once you have found a company that you trust, you can follow their instructions on how to remove Activation Lock. Be aware that some of these services may charge a fee, so be sure to compare prices before making a decision.
Identify Your Device’s Activation Lock Status
To effectively tackle the issue of removing Activation Lock on your Apple device without the requisite Apple ID, it’s imperative to ascertain whether your device has Activation Lock enabled in the first place. This is a fairly simple process, but it requires a reliable internet connection.
In order to determine the Activation Lock status of your device, follow these steps:
1. Access the iCloud Website
Navigate to iCloud.com through a web browser on any device with internet access. This could be a computer, a tablet, or even a different smartphone.
2. Sign In with Your Apple ID (If Applicable)
If you know your Apple ID and password, enter them into the designated fields to sign in. It’s worth noting that this step is optional and can be bypassed if you don’t have access to your Apple ID. Alternatively, if you have a different Apple ID that is linked to your locked device, you can use that instead.
3. Select “Find My”
Once you’re signed in (or if you chose to skip signing in), click or tap on the “Find My” icon within the iCloud interface. This will open a new window or tab displaying a map with your Apple devices.
4. Find Your Device on the Map
Locate your locked device on the map. If you have multiple iCloud devices, click or tap on the “All Devices” dropdown menu at the top of the screen and select the device you’re interested in.
5. Check Activation Lock Status
Click or tap on your device’s icon. A panel containing the device’s information will appear. Within this panel, you’ll find a section indicating whether Activation Lock is enabled or not. If it says “Activation Lock: On,” your device has Activation Lock enabled and you’ll need to remove it in order to bypass the restrictions.
Understand the Consequences of Removing Activation Lock
Deactivating Activation Lock is a critical step if you intend to use an iPhone or iPad without the original Apple ID. However, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential ramifications before proceeding:
- Device becomes brick: Without an Apple ID, you will lose access to all iCloud services and the Find my Device application. This means that if your device is lost or stolen, you will not be able to track or erase it.
- App Store restrictions: You will not be able to download or update apps from the App Store without signing in with an Apple ID. This can limit your access to essential apps and updates.
- Security concerns: Removing Activation Lock without authorization poses a security risk. Third-party tools may compromise your device’s security, making it vulnerable to malicious attacks.
Utilize Checkra1n Jailbreaking (For A5-A11 Devices)
Checkra1n is a powerful and reliable jailbreaking tool that can be utilized to bypass Activation Lock on devices with A5-A11 chips. This method is highly effective and does not require an Apple ID or password. However, it’s important to note that this process is only compatible with devices that support A5-A11 chips. Follow the below steps to utilize Checkra1n for Activation Lock bypass:
- Download and install Checkra1n from its official website.
- Connect your device to your computer using a USB cable.
- Put your device into DFU mode by following these steps:
- Once your device is in DFU mode, Checkra1n will automatically detect it.
- Click the “Start” button in Checkra1n and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Once the jailbreaking process is complete, your device will be bypassed from Activation Lock.
| iOS Device | DFU Mode Instructions |
|---|---|
| iPhone 8 and later | Press and release the Volume Up button, then press and release the Volume Down button. Finally, press and hold the Side button. |
| iPhone 7 and 7 Plus | Press and hold both the Volume Down button and the Sleep/Wake button. |
| iPhone 6s and earlier, iPad, iPod touch | Press and hold both the Sleep/Wake button and the Home button. |
Employ iCloud Bypass Tools (For iOS 7-iOS 12.5.5)
If your iPhone is running iOS 7 to iOS 12.5.5, you can use iCloud bypass tools to remove the activation lock without an Apple ID. These tools exploit vulnerabilities in Apple’s iCloud servers to bypass the activation process.
To use an iCloud bypass tool, you will need a computer with an internet connection. Once you have found an iCloud bypass tool, follow the instructions provided by the tool. The process usually involves connecting your iPhone to the computer and running the tool to remove the activation lock.
Here are some of the most popular iCloud bypass tools:
| Tool | Supported iOS Versions |
|---|---|
| iCloudin | iOS 7-iOS 12.5.5 |
| DoulCi iCloud Unlocker | iOS 7-iOS 12.4.8 |
| iRemover | iOS 7-iOS 12.5.5 |
| iActivation Unlocker | iOS 7-iOS 12.5.5 |
| iBypasser | iOS 7-iOS 12.5.5 |
Please note that iCloud bypass tools are not always reliable, and they may not work on all iPhones. Additionally, using an iCloud bypass tool may void your iPhone’s warranty.
Leverage FMI Off Method (For Specific iPhone Models)
Requirements
This method is only applicable to iPhone models running iOS 11 or earlier and requires specific hardware modifications to disable the Find My iPhone (FMI) feature.
Procedure
Step 1: Disassemble the iPhone
Carefully disassemble the iPhone by removing the screws and rear panel. Locate the logic board and identify the two metal EMI shields.
Step 2: Cut Away the EMI Shields
Using a sharp tool, carefully cut away the EMI shields covering the NAND memory chip and USB power management IC (U2).
Step 3: Create a Short Circuit
Locate the test point marked “TP23” near the USB power management IC. Connect a jumper wire or a piece of conductive material to create a short circuit.
Step 4: Reassemble the iPhone
Reassemble the iPhone by reattaching the rear panel and screws. Do not connect the battery yet.
Step 5: Flash a Modified Firmware
Connect the iPhone to a computer and enter DFU mode (Device Firmware Update mode). Use a specialized flashing tool to flash a modified firmware that disables the FMI feature. This requires technical expertise and caution to avoid bricking the device.
Caution
This method is complex and requires specialized knowledge and equipment. It is strongly recommended to consult a qualified technician or refer to detailed online guides for safe execution.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Disassemble the iPhone |
| 2 | Cut away the EMI shields |
| 3 | Create a short circuit |
| 4 | Reassemble the iPhone |
| 5 | Flash a modified firmware |
Consider Using DNS Bypass Method (For Wi-Fi Connectivity Only)
The DNS bypass method is a free technique that allows you to remove the Activation Lock temporarily, enabling you to bypass it and access your iPhone or iPad. This method, however, is limited to establishing a Wi-Fi connection and does not grant full access to Apple services or restore device functionality.
How to Remove Activation Lock Using DNS Bypass
- Ensure your device is powered on and connected to a Wi-Fi network.
- Choose the “Wi-Fi” option from the Activation Lock screen.
- Click on the “i” icon next to the connected Wi-Fi network.
- Find the “Configure DNS” option and tap on it.
- Select the “Manual” option and enter the following DNS addresses:
- Save the settings and restart your device.
| Region | DNS Addresses |
|---|---|
| North America / South America | 104.154.51.7 31.13.248.106 |
| Europe | 104.155.28.90 17.142.160.90 |
| Asia | 104.155.220.58 31.13.155.6 |
| Rest of the World | 78.109.17.60 104.155.254.254 |
Once your device restarts, you’ll be temporarily bypassed the Activation Lock and have access to the Home screen. However, note that this method will only work until your device is restarted or connected to a different Wi-Fi network.
Explore Server Configuration Bypass (For Unlocking Without Jailbreak)
Server Configuration Bypass is a method that exploits a vulnerability in the iCloud servers to bypass the Activation Lock without the need for a jailbreak.
Steps:
- Connect your locked device to a computer with iTunes installed.
- Put your device into recovery mode by following the steps for your device model.
- In iTunes, click the “Restore” option. When prompted, choose “Update” instead of “Restore and Update.”
- Once the update is complete, your device will reboot. Ignore the activation screen and connect it to a Wi-Fi network.
- On your computer, go to the following website: https://icloud.com/bypass.
- Enter your device’s IMEI or serial number into the field provided and click “Bypass.”
- Your device should now bypass the Activation Lock and boot into the Home screen. Note that this method may not work on all devices and may require specific software or hardware configurations.
Device Compatibility and Software Requirements:
The Server Configuration Bypass method is compatible with a limited range of iOS devices and requires specific software versions. The following table provides an overview:
| Device | iOS Version |
|---|---|
| iPhone 5S | 10.3.3 |
| iPhone 6 | 10.3.3 |
| iPhone 6 Plus | 10.3.3 |
| iPad Air | 10.3.3 |
| iPad Air 2 | 10.3.3 |
| iPad Pro 9.7-inch (1st generation) | 10.3.3 |
Contact Apple Support (For Exceptional Circumstances Only)
Contacting Apple Support should be considered a last resort, as they will only assist in removing Activation Lock under very specific circumstances. These circumstances typically involve legal ownership of the device and proof of purchase.
To contact Apple Support:
- Visit the Apple Support website: https://support.apple.com/contact
- Select "iPhone" as the product category.
- Choose "Activation Lock" as the issue type.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to request a callback or schedule an appointment at an Apple Store.
Note: Apple Support will require you to provide proof of ownership, such as an original purchase receipt or a letter from the device’s previous owner. They may also ask you to answer security questions related to the Apple ID associated with the device.
Provide Proof of Ownership
To successfully remove Activation Lock without an Apple ID, you must provide Apple Support with proof of ownership. This can include:
| Proof of Ownership |
|---|
| Original purchase receipt |
| Bank statement showing the purchase |
| Letter from the previous owner |
Note: The proof of ownership must clearly state your name, the device’s serial number, and the date of purchase.
Security Questions
Apple Support may also ask you to answer security questions related to the Apple ID associated with the device. These questions may include:
- What is your Apple ID?
- What is the date of your birth?
- What is your mother’s maiden name?
- What is the name of your first pet?
Note: You must answer these questions correctly to remove Activation Lock without an Apple ID.
Protect Your Device from Unauthorized Access
Activation Lock is a security feature that prevents anyone else from using your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch if it’s ever lost or stolen. When Activation Lock is turned on, your Apple ID and password are required to:
- Turn off Find my iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch
- Erase your device
- Reactivate your device
Activation Lock is automatically turned on when you turn on Find my iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. You can check if Activation Lock is turned on by going to Settings > [your name] > iCloud > Find my [device].
If You’re the Owner of the Device
If you’re the owner of the device and you’ve forgotten your Apple ID or password, you can follow these steps to remove Activation Lock:
- Go to the Apple ID website (https://appleid.apple.com/) and click on “Forgot Apple ID or password?”.
- Enter your email address or phone number and click on “Continue”.
- Follow the instructions to reset your Apple ID or password.
If You’re Not the Owner of the Device
If you’re not the owner of the device, you will not be able to remove Activation Lock. The only way to remove Activation Lock is to contact the owner of the device and ask them to remove it for you.
Be Aware of Legal Implications
Removing Activation Lock without Apple ID may violate the law. Apple has strict policies against unauthorized access to its devices, and attempting to bypass Activation Lock could lead to legal consequences, including fines or imprisonment.
Third-Party Risks
Third-party tools and services that claim to remove Activation Lock without Apple ID often come with significant risks. These tools may:
1. Contain Malware or Spyware:
Malicious programs can be hidden within third-party tools, compromising your device’s security and privacy.
2. Not Work as Intended:
Many third-party tools fail to deliver on their promises, leaving you disappointed and potentially out of money.
3. Void Your Warranty:
Attempting to bypass Activation Lock using third-party tools may void your device’s warranty, leaving you responsible for any subsequent repairs.
4. Risk Permanent Damage:
Unsafe or poorly designed third-party tools can cause permanent damage to your device, rendering it unusable.
5. Compromise Your Data:
Third-party tools may collect and share your personal information, putting your privacy at risk.
6. Violate Apple’s Terms of Service:
Using third-party tools to remove Activation Lock violates Apple’s terms of service, potentially leading to account suspension or device blockage.
7. Be Considered Illegal:
In some jurisdictions, bypassing Activation Lock without Apple ID is considered illegal, and you may face criminal charges.
8. May Not Remove Activation Lock:
Even if you find a tool that claims to remove Activation Lock, it’s likely not a permanent solution. Apple may eventually relock your device.
9. Best Practices:
If you need to remove Activation Lock, always contact Apple customer support first. Do not attempt to bypass Activation Lock without Apple ID, as the risks outweigh the potential benefits.
10. Summary of Legal and Third-Party Risks:
| Legal Implications | Fines, imprisonment |
| Third-Party Risks |
|
How to Remove Activation Lock Without Apple ID for Free
Activation Lock is a security feature on Apple devices that prevents anyone but the owner from accessing the device. This can be a problem if you find yourself in possession of an iPhone or another iDevice that is locked with an iCloud account and you don’t know the password.
However, there are a few ways to bypass Activation Lock for free. One method involves using a DNS bypass service. This method works on all devices running iOS 7 or later, but it is not always reliable. Another method involves using a hardware bypass tool. This method is more reliable, but it requires you to have physical access to the device.
If you are unable to bypass Activation Lock using either of these methods, you can try contacting Apple for help. Apple may be able to help you unlock the device if you can provide proof of ownership. However, Apple’s support for Activation Lock bypass is limited. If you have a stolen device, you should contact the authorities.
People Also Ask About How to Remove Activation Lock Without Apple ID For Free
How can I tell if my iPhone is Activation Locked?
If your iPhone is Activation Locked, you will see the “Activation Lock” screen when you try to activate the device. This screen will ask you to enter the iCloud username and password that was used to set up the device.
If you don’t know the iCloud username and password, you will not be able to activate the device.
What if I find a lost iPhone or iPad and it asks for an Activation Lock code?
If you find a lost iPhone or iPad and it asks for an Activation Lock code, the best thing to do is to try to find the owner and return it to them. You can try to contact the owner by looking for contact information on the device.
If you are unable to find the owner, you can contact Apple for help. Apple may be able to help you unlock the device if you can provide proof of ownership.
Can I bypass Activation Lock without a computer?
Yes, there are a few ways to bypass Activation Lock without a computer. One method involves using a DNS bypass service. This method works on all devices running iOS 7 or later, but it is not always reliable.
Another method involves using a hardware bypass tool. This method is more reliable, but it requires you to have physical access to the device.
