How to Fix Locked Apple ID on Apple iPhone 12

Part of why you own and use Apple devices is the reliability of the Apple iPhone 12 devices and the ease of using them. This starts with the quality of hardware and the synergy with the software that runs the hardware, and the user experience you get. Apple puts great emphasis on this, and rightly so, for this is one of the keys defining and differentiating factors for people to choose Apple’s iOS over Google’s Android. Like with all good things in life, sometimes, a spanner is put in the works that bring your smooth-sailing life to an abrupt halt. With smartphones playing pivotal roles in our lives today, from payments to internet experiences to getting work done to stay in touch with people, anything that stops us from using our smartphone or endangers that experience is a cause for worry. A locked Apple ID is one such thing. It does not happen frequently, in fact, most users will never experience a locked Apple ID, but for the ones who are fortunate enough to have such a rare experience in life, help is at hand. All you need to do is relax and read on. By the end of it, you will have an unlocked Apple ID and you can go back to cruising.

Part I: Difference Between Activation Lock and Locked Apple ID

Apple being Apple, does a lot to make sure that users get the smoothest experience possible when interacting with their Apple products, both hardware, and software. Yet, sometimes, the messaging gets confusing, and people are not sure what is what. One such thing is the difference between iCloud Activation Lock and Apple ID Lock. While people are more likely to encounter Activation Lock and less likely to encounter Apple ID Lock, they are often confused when they encounter Apple ID Lock and struggle to figure out what that means and how to resolve the issue.

Activation Lock is when your supported Apple device is locked for a number of reasons. The most common reason is a stolen device that was locked by its owner, however, there are other perfectly valid reasons such as an outgoing employee forgetting to sign out and erase their Apple device before submitting it back. The IT department would not be able to reset that device without turning off Find My Apple iPhone 12 and Activation Lock on the Apple iPhone 12 device.

A locked Apple ID usually happens when the user has forgotten their password to their Apple ID account and attempts to figure out the password have been unsuccessful. Sometimes, Apple ID gets locked automatically under some conditions, and that requires users to reset their password to gain access. A locked Apple ID does not mean that your device is locked for your use. You can keep using it so long as you do not try to use another Apple ID with it since to do that you would have to sign out of your current Apple ID (which is locked) and you won’t be able to do that. On the other hand, Activation Lock renders the entire device unusable till the lock is cleared.

In short, Apple ID Lock is about a user’s account with Apple, akin to how Google Account works on Android devices. Apple ID Lock locks a user’s account with Apple while retaining complete usage of the Apple iPhone 12 device whereas Activation Lock locks the Apple iPhone 12 device and prevents anyone from using it until the correct credentials are entered. This is about verifying the ownership of the Apple iPhone 12 device and works to deter theft of Apple devices.

Part II: Checking If Your Apple ID Is Locked

A locked Apple ID is rather unmistakable. Your device would keep telling you that your Apple ID is locked for your security. Your Apple ID could be locked or disabled altogether if someone has tried to gain access to your account (and, obviously, failed). Apple would disable access to the Apple ID unless you are able to prove rightful ownership and reset the password successfully.

Part III: Reasons for Locked Apple ID

There can be a few reasons why your Apple ID is locked. You forgot the password and now it is locked since you entered the wrong password too many times. A scarier prospect, albeit a real one, is that some malicious actor attempted to login into your Apple ID account but failed. Had they succeeded, you would have gotten a message that ‘your Apple ID is being used on another device’ now.

Apple does a lot to ensure that your Apple ID remains safe. You trust Apple with a lot of your data, including financial data by way of your credit cards associated with Apple ID to make purchases on the App Store and iTunes Store. Therefore, some of the time, Apple preempts issues by proactively locking up your Apple ID or even disabling it. It goes without saying that sometimes it is something so simple as a software error that is believed to have locked up Apple IDs for many users around the world a while ago. It is also entirely possible that it was some malicious actor probing the servers for accounts.

All of these will result in a locked Apple ID that users will have to reset their password to in order to gain access back.

Part IV: How to Unlock Apple ID on Apple iPhone 12

It is unfortunate you are facing a locked Apple ID. Apple tries its best to make users aware of safety protocols they need to follow to minimize and mitigate such unfortunate occurrences, such as using two-factor authentication, trusted devices, trusted phone numbers, passwords, passcodes, etc. that serve as deterrents to prevent unauthorized access to devices and accounts. Yet, when the unfortunate happens, what to do?

IV.I: Unlock Apple ID Via Two-Factor Authentication

Apple implemented two-factor authentication a long time ago to prevent unauthorized access to Apple ID accounts. If you have it enabled, you would be able to use two-factor authentication to unlock your Apple ID again.

Step 1: Go to https://iforgot.apple.com .

Step 2: Key in your Apple ID and proceed.

Step 3: Confirm your mobile number associated with the Apple ID.

If you have another device associated with the Apple ID and it is a trusted device, you can now receive instructions to proceed with a two-factor code on that device.

Step 4: Use that code to unlock your Apple ID using two-factor authentication.

IV.II Unlock Apple ID Via Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Dr.Fone is a name that will be instantly familiar to anyone who has ever had any issue with their mobile devices and would be able to vouch for the quality and efficacy of this software at fixing issues quickly and efficiently.

Dr.Fone is a collection of carefully crafted modules that helps you when most needed. Ranging from helping you wipe your devices securely with Data Eraser to maintain your privacy when you sell your device or give it to service and helping you erase not just junk on your device but also user data such as SMS (whether single or batch) to free up some space on your Apple iPhone 12, to Phone Transfer that helps you to easily transfer data you’re your old phone to your new Apple iPhone 12 including restoring from iCloud Backups, Dr.Fone is a venerable utility from Wondershare that does it all and lives up to its name. Naturally, this tool was designed to help you unlock your Apple ID as well.

Step 1: Download Dr.Fone.

Step 2: Launch Dr.Fone and select the Screen Unlock module.

Step 3: Click Unlock Apple ID to start the process.

Step 4: Connect your device to the computer and wait for Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) to detect it. You must know the passcode of your device.

You will be asked on your Apple iPhone 12 to Trust the computer, and then you will need to enter the passcode.

Step 5: Unlocking Apple ID via Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) will erase the contents of the Apple iPhone 12 device. You need to confirm this by typing six zeroes (000 000) in the popup.

Step 6: Follow the on-screen instructions to reset all your settings on the Apple iPhone 12 and then reboot to start the unlocking process.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) will notify you when the process is complete.

Part V: Conclusion

Considering how much the Apple ID is pivotal to our Apple experience, it can be incredibly unnerving to realize that it is locked or disabled, due to any reason. We use our Apple ID for iCloud services on Apple devices, to make purchases on iTunes Store and App Store and payments using Apple Pay. Apple knows this and has checked in place to make sure that only you are in possession of your Apple ID account at all times. It can cause a little hassle at times, since if someone makes multiple failed attempts to gain access to your account, Apple will lock your Apple ID until you can unlock it with proper verifications and reset your password.

How To Erase an Apple iPhone 12 Without Apple ID Password?

Have you ever wondered what happens when you erase the content of your Apple iPhone 12 storage? Erasing an iPhone means restoring it to its factory settings to install the latest iOS version. It also permanently removes all your data, including photos, videos, contacts, apps, and other information stored on the Apple iPhone 12 device.

This process is often necessary when you sell or give away your Apple iPhone 12 to ensure your personal information remains secure. But, you may encounter a situation where you should learn how to erase an iPhone without an Apple ID. While this may seem challenging, you can use a few methods to achieve this goal. This article will show you how to do it with or without an Apple ID password.

Part 1: A Checklist on What To Do Before Erasing an iPhone

If you’re looking at how to erase an iPhone without an Apple ID or account password, you’ve come to the right place. Before you begin, preparing your device and ensuring you have all the necessary information is crucial. Here’s a checklist of what to do before erasing your Apple iPhone 12:

Backup Your Apple iPhone 12

You can back up to iCloud or use Finder on macOS 10.15 or later. Remember that iCloud backups are stored on Apple’s servers and always encrypts backups. On the other hand, computer backups are stored on your computer’s hard drive and require a connection to the backup computer. Consider what your needs and preferences are when choosing between these two backup options.

Prepare Your Apple iPhone 12 Passcode

You’ll need your Apple iPhone 12 passcode to erase an iPhone. If you’ve forgotten your passcode, reset it using recovery mode.

Ready Your Apple ID Password

You may be asked to provide your Apple ID password to disable the Find My iPhone function and remove the Apple iPhone 12 device from your account. Have it handy to avoid any delays. It’s necessary for security verification during the erasure process.

Unpair Apple Watch

If you own an Apple Watch, unpair it from your Apple iPhone 12. It ensures a smooth disconnection and prevents complications when erasing the Apple iPhone 12 device.

Cancel Your AppleCare Plan

If you have an active AppleCare plan for your Apple iPhone 12, cancel it on your Apple iPhone 12 before erasing the Apple iPhone 12 device. You can cancel your AppleCare plan by phone by calling AppleCare customer support. It will prevent any unnecessary charges after the erasing process.

Sign Out of iCloud

If your Apple iPhone 12 has iOS 10.3 or later, open the Settings app, then tap on your name at the top. Next, scroll down, tap Sign Out, enter your Apple ID password, and tap Turn Off.

Remove Your Apple iPhone 12 From Your List of Trusted Devices

Remove your old device from your list of trusted devices in your Apple ID settings for added security. This measure strengthens the defense against unauthorized access to your data.

Part 2: How To Erase iPhone Without Apple ID Password via Settings?

Erasing an iPhone and restoring it to factory settings is a straightforward process you can do in a few steps. Whether you’re preparing to sell or gift your device or troubleshooting persistent software issues, erasing your Apple iPhone 12 contents can enhance its performance. The process is easy if you have your Apple ID password readily available.

However, if you’ve forgotten your Apple ID password, don’t fret. Follow the guide below to reset your Apple ID password and erase all content and settings on your Apple iPhone 12:

• Step 1: Open the Settings application, then tap [name].
• Step 2: Go to Sign-In & Security > Change Password.

• Step 3: Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your Apple ID password.
• Step 4: Go to General > Reset from the Settings app, then tap Erase All Content and Settings.

• Step 5: Input your Apple ID password or your passcode when prompted.
• Step 6: Click Continue to confirm. Then, wait while the contents are being removed from your Apple iPhone 12 device.

Part 3: How To Erase iPhone Without Apple ID Password on Computer?

Activation lock is a security feature. It prevents anyone from activating an iPhone without your Apple ID password. If you try to factory reset your Apple iPhone 12 without turning off Find My iPhone, the activation lock will be in place. It means you need to enter your Apple ID password to activate the Apple iPhone 12 again. To turn it off, also ensure to turn off Find My on your device.

Go to Settings > [your name] > Find My or Find My iPhone to check.

If you want to erase an iPhone without Apple ID password on your computer, you can do so as long as you turn off the Find My. However, you’ll need to put your Apple iPhone 12 into Recovery Mode first.

• Step 1: Turn off your Apple iPhone 12, then put it into Recovery Mode.
• For iPhone 8 or later: Press and hold the Side button.
• For iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus: Press and hold the Volume Down button.
• For iPhone 6s or earlier: Press and hold the Home button.
• Step 2: Connect your Apple iPhone 12 to the computer with the button held down.
• Step 3: Hold the buttons steadily until the Recovery Mode screen is visible.

• Step 4: Switch on your Apple iPhone 12. Then, connect it to a Mac or Windows computer using a USB cable.

• Step 5: When prompted, follow the on-screen instructions to enter your device passcode or click Trust This Computer.

• Step 6: Depending on your computer, open Finder or iTunes. Then, do either of the following:

• For macOS 10.15 or later: Select your Apple iPhone 12 under the Locationssection, then click Restore iPhone.

• For macOS 10.14 or earlier or Windows: Click the Apple iPhone 12 in the top left window, click Summary, then click Restore iPhone.
• Step 7: Click Restore in the dialogue box. iTunes or Finder will download your Apple iPhone 12’s latest iOS software and restore the Apple iPhone 12 to its factory settings.

• Step 8: Once the restore is complete, the Apple iPhone 12 will restart.

Part 4: Erase an iPhone Without Apple ID via Activation Lock Support Request

You can request to unlock Activation Lock support from Apple if your device is not in Lost Mode or if you need to erase an iPhone without an Apple ID password. To do this, you need to provide proof of purchase of the iPhone. It can be in the form of a receipt, invoice, or credit card statement.

The proof should show the serial number of the iPhone, IMEI, or MEID. Once Apple unlocks the Activation Lock on your Apple iPhone 12, your Apple iPhone 12 contents will be permanently erased. Also, note that if you restore your Apple iPhone 12 from a local backup, the Activation Lock will re-enable.

To start this request, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Head to Apple’s Activation Lock support page. (al-support.apple.com)
• Step 2: Scroll down the page, select the agreement checkbox, click Continue, and it will redirect you to a new page.

• Step 3: Enter your email address and other required information, then click Continue.

Part 5: How To Erase an iPhone Without an Apple ID Password in Minutes?

The time it takes to process an unlock Activation Lock support request can take days. If your device is erased as soon as possible, use the Wondershare Dr.Fone Screen Unlock tool. This third-party mobile solution can erase an iPhone without an Apple ID password, even if the Find My feature is enabled. Also, it can:

• Remove several iOS lock screens, such as passcode, Touch ID, and more.
• Remove the iCloud Activation Lock
• Bypass Apple ID from iPhone without a password
• Remove MDM restrictions

Dr.Fone Screen Unlock is a simple, easy-to-use tool compatible with the latest iOS models. Follow these steps to remove the Apple ID from your Apple iPhone 12 and erase all its contents within minutes:

• Step 1: Download and install Dr.Fone on your desktop. Launch the app and connect your Apple iPhone 12 using a USB cable.

• Step 2: From the Toolbox homepage, select Screen Unlock, then choose iOS.

• Step 3: Select Remove AppleID to delete iPhone contents, including the Apple ID.

• Step 4: The next screen shows the connected device. Click Unlock Now.

• Step 5: Click Yes to confirm you have set up a screen lock.

• Step 6: Click Yes to verify you have enabled two-factor authentication on your Apple iPhone 12.

• Step 7: Follow the in-app instructions to put your device in Recovery Mode.

• Step 8: Select an option from the System Version drop-down list, then click Start.

• Step 9: Wait while the iOS firmware downloads.

• Step 10: Once downloaded, click Unlock Now to proceed.

• Step 11: Enter the code in the dialogue box and click Unlock.

• Step 12: Keep your Apple iPhone 12 connected to your computer while the process progresses.

• Step 13: Click Done and check that your Apple iPhone 12’s data and Apple ID have been removed.

Conclusion

It can be challenging to erase an iPhone without an Apple ID password, but it’s achievable by following the right steps. Remember to weigh the security implications and back up your data beforehand.

If you’re seeking a straightforward method on “how to erase an iPhone without Apple ID,” Dr.Fone Screen Unlock tool is a good solution. With its user-friendly interface and efficient operation, Dr.Fone simplifies the process, making it accessible to users of all technical levels. Don’t let a forgotten Apple ID password hinder your device’s functionality. Try Dr.Fone Screen Unlock and reclaim control of your Apple iPhone 12.

How To Reset the Security Questions of Your Apple ID On Your Apple iPhone 12

Your Apple ID serves as the gateway to a multitude of Apple services, encompassing the likes of the App Store, iCloud, iTunes, and beyond. To fortify the safeguarding of your Apple ID, Apple kindly requests that you establish security questions.

These inquiries act as an extra shield, enabling you to regain access to your account should you ever forget your password. However, there are various reasons to explain why people want Apple ID reset security questions, like discussed below. In this ultimate guide, we provide step-by-step instructions on how to reset the security questions of their Apple ID.

Part 1: What Is the Purpose of the Apple ID Security Questions

Before talking about “reset my security questions Apple ID,” let’s talk about what they are. Apple has a reputation for ensuring the high security of its devices and services. The devices have Face ID and Touch ID for security and strong encryption standards. Apple devices are considered among the most secure in the tech industry. Moreover, Apple takes device security seriously. An example is the use of security questions.

When you create an Apple ID or set up a new device, Apple prompts you to choose security questions. These questions are carefully designed to be something only you would know. This explains their role as an extra layer of protection for your account. Typical instances include questions like “What is the name of your first pet?” or “In which city were you born?”

Importance of Apple ID Security Questions

The security questions associated with your Apple ID serve a critical role. They perform a pivotal role in ensuring the security and confidentiality of your digital presence. Numerous modern authentication techniques, such as biometrics, offer a strong layer of safeguarding.

Nonetheless, there might be instances where you require reentry to your account, such as in cases of forgotten passwords. In such scenarios, security questions serve as a vital lifeline, enabling you to authenticate your identity and regain control of your Apple ID.

Purpose of Security Questions

1. Account Recovery: Security questions are a valuable tool for account recovery. They provide a means for you to prove your identity to Apple support in case you’re locked out of your account. Thus helping you regain access to your account quickly.
2. Additional Layer of Security: Imagine someone manages to get your Apple ID details. Even then, they would still need to answer your security questions to make changes to your account. This extra layer of account protection prevents unauthorized access.
3. Privacy Protection: Apple understands the importance of privacy. By setting up security questions, you can choose information that is meaningful to you. At the same time, it is not easily discoverable by others, enhancing the privacy of your account.

Part 2: How To Reset the Apple ID Security Questions Through the Account Settings

As we’ve established, Apple prioritizes security and privacy. There are various reasons why you might want to reset your Apple ID security questions. These range from enhancing security to changing the info associated with your account. Whatever your reason, it’s essential to securely follow the proper procedure for iCloud reset security questions.

Why Reset Your Apple ID Security Questions?

1. Enhancing Security: Security is an ever-evolving field. Resetting your security questions periodically can strengthen your account’s defense. It is especially handy against emerging threats and ensures your information remains secure.
2. Prevention of Attacks: Do you suspect unauthorized access or believe your security questions may have been compromised? In this scenario, resetting them immediately can protect your account.
3. Adhering to Best Practices: Security experts recommend changing passwords and security questions periodically. Regularly updating your security questions is a cautious security practice.
4. Making Relevant Changes: Over time, life circumstances change. You might move to a new location, get a new pet, or have different personal experiences. Updating your security questions to reflect these changes can make them more effective.

Guide for Resetting Apple ID Security Questions Through Account Settings

Resetting your Apple ID security questions through your account settings is a straightforward process that enhances the security of your Apple ID. Follow these detailed steps to reset your security questions:

• Step 1. Begin by visiting and signing into the official Apple ID management page at appleid.apple.com. Then, proceed to the “Sign-In and Security” section for changing the security questions.

• Step 2. Now, click “Account Security” and follow it by locating “Change security questions.” Click on it to proceed, and you’ll now be prompted to set up new security questions and provide their corresponding answers.

• Step 3. After adding your new security questions and answers, click the “Update” button. To complete the process, you will need to verify your identity by entering your Apple ID password.

Pro Tip: What if Your Apple ID Got Locked? Unlock It With the Best Solution

So, you’ve been following our ultimate guide to reset your Apple ID security questions. However, you hit a roadblock – your Apple ID is locked. It happens many times that people forget their Apple ID passcode or get their Apple ID locked due to various reasons. In such cases, there is no need to panic that you are now unable to unlock the ID and access your important data.

This is because we have an excellent solution that can help you regain access to your Apple ID quickly and efficiently. With the help of the Wondershare Dr.Fone, you can easily get your Apple ID unlocked without a passcode.

Using this tool, users are able to bypass the iCloud activation lock and Apple ID without a password to use it as per their need. Moreover, they can also Bypass MDM and screen time without data loss, which is a plus point of this unique tool.

Key Features of Wondershare Dr.Fone

1. This tool is compatible with the latest iPhone 15 models and all iOS versions, including iOS 17.
2. No technical skill is required to use this tool because of its easy-to-use interface.
3. 6-digit passcode, Touch ID, Face ID, and various screen locks can be removed in no time.

Steps To Unlock Apple ID Without Password via Wondershare Dr.Fone

Following are the simple steps you need to follow to unlock your Apple ID after you have forgotten the passcode:

• Step 1: Initiate the Process by Launching Wondershare Dr.Fone

Begin the unlocking process of Apple ID by installing and launching Dr.Fone’s latest version on your computer. Connect your Apple iPhone 12 to the computer and tap on the “Toolbox” option to access different options, from which you need to select “Screen Unlock.”

• Step 2: Tap on Respective Option and Answer Platform Questions

Afterward, hit the “Remove Apple ID” option and tap the “Unlock Now” button in the next window. Proceeding ahead, the platform will ask you some questions which you will need to answer. However, it is necessary to ensure that your Apple iPhone 12 has “Screen Lock” and “2FA” enabled.

• Step 3: Enable Recovery Mode and Choose System Version

Then, put your device in Recovery Mode so that the platform can detect the “Device Model.” With this, you will need to choose “System Version” in the respective window and tap on the “Start” button. Required firmware will start downloading that is suitable to your device.

• Step 4: Disable Apple ID on Your Device

On its successful completion, you will be notified from the platform, after which you are required to proceed by clicking on the “Unlock Now” button. A prompt will pop up on the screen; type the code in it and hit “Unlock.” This will remove the Apple ID passcode successfully in just a few moments.

Part 3: How To Perform Apple ID Reset Security Questions Using iForgot Website

Apple offers multiple avenues for users to perform essential security protocol changes, one of which is through the iForgot website. This website serves as a valuable resource for Apple device users in various scenarios. These include forgotten passwords, 2FA issues, account recovery, and unlocking Apple IDs. Here is the process of Apple ID reset security questions using the iForgot website:

• Step 1. Begin by opening your web browser and navigating to the iForgot website at https://iforgot.apple.com/. You will then be asked to input your Apple ID. After entering your Apple ID, proceed by clicking the “Continue” button.

• Step 2. On the following page, you’ll encounter various options for account recovery. Opt for “I need to reset my security questions” and click “Continue.” For added security measures, Apple will request you to confirm your identity.

• Step 3. After your identity has been successfully verified, you’ll receive prompts to establish new security questions. Once you’ve created your new security questions, remember to save the changes.

Part 4: How To Reset the Apple ID Questions by Contacting the Customer Support

Contact Apple’s Customer Support if you have failed to reset your Apple ID security questions. They are well-equipped to assist with a wide range of device-related problems. You can use the following guide on how to reset the security questions on Apple ID via Apple Customer Support:

• Step 1: Begin by visiting the Apple Support website located at https://getsupport.apple.com/. Once there, use the search bar to type your issue. In this section, look for and click on “ Change my Apple ID security questions.”

• Step 2: After selecting your issue, you will be presented with various support articles and options. Scroll down and choose the desired option from the “Contact” section. Follow the on-screen instructions to contact Apple support and provide details about your issue.

Conclusion

To summarize, we’ve explored the importance of Apple ID security questions. We provided you with different ways on how to reset the security questions on Apple ID. The article highlighted the significance of security in the Apple ecosystem. It also explained the role security questions play in protecting your account.

We discussed the various reasons why you might want to reset your Apple ID security questions. You learned how to reset your security questions through your Apple ID account settings and via the iForgot website. Additionally, we introduced Wondershare Dr.Fone as a reliable solution for unlocking your Apple ID. Dr.Fone offers a user-friendly interface, a high success rate, and the ability to resolve various iOS device issues.