In 2024, How To Erase an Apple iPhone 12 Without Apple ID Password?

In 2024, How To Erase an Apple iPhone 12 Without Apple ID Password?

Alma Lv12

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.

back and front of iphone 15

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.

several ways to backup iphone

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.

unpair apple watch on iphone

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.

cancel an applecare plan

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.

change apple id 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.

erase all content and settings interface

  • 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.

find my iphone settings

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.

iphone in recovery mode

  • 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.

restore iphone on mac device

  • 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.

restore iphone to 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.

apple activation lock support page

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

request activation lock support online

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.

dr.fone toolbox interface

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

dr.fone screen unlock tools

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

unlock connected ios device

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

validate iphone screen lock set up

confirm two-factor authentication enabled

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

put iphone into recovery mode

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

select system version for the iphone

  • Step 9: Wait while the iOS firmware downloads.

downloading ios firmware in progress

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

ios firmware downloaded

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

enter confirmation code

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

unlocking apple id

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

iphone apple id unlocked

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.

Apple ID Locked or Disabled On Apple iPhone 12? 7 Mehtods You Can’t-Miss

Apple ID refers to the authentication method available for the Apple iPhone 12 device to compromise users’ personal information and settings. The Apple iPhone 12 Apple ID will allow you to store and control data available on the Apple iPhone 12 device; however, you need to re-generate the Apple iPhone 12 passcode if you have forgotten the Apple iPhone 12 passcode. Suppose, if you have forgotten the passcode and entered the wrong passcode six times, your Apple iPhone 12 gets locked or has been disabled. According to your settings, if you have entered the wrong passcode too much time could even make your Apple iPhone 12 delete all the data available.

This article will discuss how you can unlock Apple ID and remain secure. If you receive a message that you have entered the wrong passcode or forgotten your passcode, you have to follow some steps to regain access to your Apple Id.

Why Is Your Apple ID Locked or Disabled?

apple id locked

Some of the reasons causing your Apple ID locked or disabled are listed below:

  • If you have entered the wrong passcode or security question too many times in a row, Apple ID gets locked. (Avoid entering the incorrect password more than 3 times)
  • If you haven’t used your Apple ID for an extended period, possibly making your Apple ID disabled or locked. When Apple modifies the requirement for passcode and security questions, you have not updated the information.

If you frequently change your Apple ID or passcode on the Apple iPhone 12 device, Apple possibly considers that your Apple iPhone 12 faces a security threat and might lock your Apple ID.

If you have forgotten your Apple ID password, you are suggested not to enter the wrong passcode in a row. That may lead to data loss. You can download the Dr.Fone– Screen Unlock, which is compatible with different lock screens and will unlock Apple ID easily. Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock helps remove almost all sorts of iPhone passwords without the requirement of technical knowledge.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Unlock iPhone ID.

  • Remove the screen password, face id, and Touch ID.
  • Don’t need to have any technical knowledge.
  • Bypass the Apple ID and iCloud activation lock in a quick way.
  • Compatible with both Android and iOS devices.

3981454 people have downloaded it

Steps to Follow:

**Step 1:**Click on the “Screen Unlock” module and a new interface will appear.

dr fone home

To unlock your Apple ID, you have to click on the “Unlock Apple ID” option.

screen unlock home

Step 2: You must know the passcode of the Apple iPhone 12 to unlock the phone screen, which trusts the computer system for scanning the data available in the phone.

trust this pc

Note: This process determines that all data will be erased when you initiate to unlock the Apple ID. (If your device didn’t activate dual authentication, then you can unlock Apple ID without data loss.) It is recommended to create a backup of your data before proceeding to the next step.

confirm action

Step 3: Before unlocking your Apple ID, you have to reset iPhone settings by following the instruction available on the screen. When you have reset all the settings, restart your device, and the process of unlocking will start automatically.

follow steps to reset

Step 4: Once the restart process gets completed, Dr. Fone will automatically kick off the unlocking process of Apple ID and get it ended in a few seconds.

unlock in progress

Step 5: When the Apple ID is unlocked successfully, the following window will indicate that you have to check if your Apple ID gets unlocked.

unlock completed

Method 2: Reset Password to Unlock Your Apple ID

In order to unlock iPhone 13 Apple ID, you can reset the password to your Apple ID. If you want to do this, you need to follow the below steps.

Step 1: Head to the Apple account recovery page and enter the desired details like your first and last name. Also, enter your email address. When done, click on the “Continue” button.

find apple id

Step 2: When the next screen appears, you will see two options to choose from. Whether you wish to receive a password through email or answer a security question, choose it. Click “Continue”.

reset apple id password

Step 3: Reset the password now. Write down the password and follow the prompts. Your password will be reset now!

reset apple id link

Method 3: Fix Apple ID Locked Via iforgot

If your Apple ID is disabled, follow these simple steps listed below:

Step 1: Enter “https://iforgot.apple.com “ in the web browser of your computer, iPhone or Tablet.

enter apple id

Step 2: You have to enter the registered E-mail address in the box available on the screen.

confirm phone number

Step 3: Enter the captcha available on the screen and click on the “Continue “option to proceed further. (If you have set up the two-factor authentication, you will receive a code that you need to enter on your device.)

Step 4: Enter the code you have received on your device and confirm it to unlock your account and allow resetting the password. (You will be asked to answer the security question to confirm your identity).

enter verification code

Step 5: Successfully, you have unlocked your Apple ID.

Method 4: Unlock Apple ID Using Two-Factor Authentication

This next method only works if you’ve already enabled the Two-Factor Authentication before getting locked out of your Apple ID. In case you’ve already enabled it, follow the below-mentioned steps to unlock your Apple ID.

Step 1: Launch the “Settings” App on your Apple iPhone 12 and then hit “your name” at the top.

Step 2: Now, select the “Password & Security” option, followed by tapping on “Change Password.”

change password

Step 3: Then you need to follow the instructions displayed over your screen carefully.

If you perform the instructions properly, you will eventually get your Apple ID unlocked.

Method 5: Remove Locked Apple ID Using Recovery Key

There are high chances that you might have protected your Apple ID with a Two-Factor Authentication. In such a case, you need to use your Recovery Key to unlock your Apple ID. Here’s how you can get it done.

Step 1: You need to first visit iforgot.apple.com and then punch in your Apple ID in the text field provided.

Step 2: You’ll then be required to enter the Recovery Key, key it in and hit “Continue”.

enter recovery key

Note: Recovery Key is a security code provided to you when the Two-Factor Authentication is first enabled.

Step 3: Now, one of your trusted devices will receive a verification code. Enter it on your screen and hit “Next”.

Step 4: Upon successful verification, you will be asked to create a new password. Please make a new password now and then make sure to remember it.

That’s it you can now make use of this new password to unlock your Apple ID.

Method 6: A Loophole: DNS Bypass

If you want to unlock iPhone 13 Apple ID and don’t remember the password**,** you can use this DNS bypass method. But to make use of this method, you need to first factory reset your device and gain access to the “Hello” screen. Here’s how you can make use of this method.

Step 1: Firstly, you need to reboot your device into Recovery Mode. Then, launch iTunes and plug it in the computer. Now, iTunes will detect your device in recovery mode. Hit on Restore iPhone and wait for the process to complete.

Step 2: Your device will restart to the “Hello” screen upon completion. From the menu, choose language and country.

Step 3: Tap on “Proceed” to get into the Wi-Fi settings page.

Step 4: Now click on the “i” icon bonded by a circle next to Wi-Fi.

click i icon

Note: In case, you are already connected to a Wi-Fi network, ensure to click on it first and then tap on “Forget This Network” to have the “i” icon visible.

Step 5: Now, when you tap on the “i” icon next to any Wi-Fi network (not connected), you need to look for the “Configure DNS” server option. Click on it and then select “Manual”, then click “Add Server.”

configure dns server

You have to select the DNS from the option available according to your region.

  • USA/North America: 104.154.51.7
  • Europe: 104.155.28.90
  • Asia: 104.155.220.58
  • Other areas: 78.109.17.60

Step 6: Now, save the settings, return to the connection page and connect to your Wi-Fi.

Step 7: You need to wait for your device to get connected with the iCloud DNS bypass server automatically.

iclouddnsbypass home

Step 8: Once you are connected to the DNS server successfully, you can then use apps and features available on your Apple iPhone 12 in an alternative way.

browse youtube

Note: This method is just a hack to use your device without the need for Apple ID. This method doesn’t unlock your Apple ID.

Method 7: Ask Apple Support

We are positive that the solutions above will get your issue resolved. However, just in case, if you’re still stuck with the same issue and are unable to unlock Apple ID on iPhone, then we would suggest you get in touch with Apple Customer Support to help you with the best. You can either directly walk into your nearest Apple Support Center or simply visit https://support.apple.com/ to get in touch with one of the customer support executives.

Conclusion

From this article, you can know how to unlock your Apple ID and reset your password. There are different ways available that will resolve your unlock iPhone issue. However, Dr.Fone is the most recommended tool as it provides a screen lock solution and recognizes it as a one-stop solution for all iPhone problems. You can also share the effective methods in this article with your families and friends.

iPhones are known for their robust security features. The Apple ID is the central feature used to provide many security services that ensure the safety of personal data. Yet, life often leads you to moments when you must part ways you’re your devices. Be it for selling, gifting, or any other reason.

In such cases, it’s essential to understand how to unlink iPhones from your Apple ID. This 2023 guide is your go-to resource, providing insight into various methods to disassociate your Apple iPhone 12 from your Apple ID, even when facing a forgotten or unrecoverable passcode.

apple id password prompt find my

Part 1. How the Apple ID System Works

The Apple ID is like the key to your Apple iPhone 12’s world. It’s a special account that connects your Apple iPhone 12 to Apple’s services. With it, you can download apps, back up your data, and more. It’s an essential part of your Apple iPhone 12 experience.

Here are ways that it protects your device.

  • **Preventing use when stolen.**If your Apple iPhone 12 gets into the wrong hands, your Apple ID keeps it locked. Even if someone tries to reset or erase the phone, they can’t use it without your Apple ID passcode.
  • **Preventing use even after reformatting the phone.**Even if you reset or erase your Apple iPhone 12, it stays locked to your Apple ID. This is super important for keeping your data safe.
  • **Other ways.**Apple ID helps you find your lost iPhone and secures your payments and personal info.

Remembering your Apple ID passcode is an intelligent move. It makes managing your Apple iPhone 12 more accessible and safer. Forgetting it can make things tricky, especially when you want to unlink your Apple iPhone 12 from your Apple ID. But don’t worry, there are solutions for that, too!

The usual way to unlink your Apple iPhone 12 from your Apple ID is recommended, especially when remembering your Apple ID passcode. This ensures a smooth and secure transition for your device. Here’s how you can do it, step-by-step:

  • Step 1. Sign out of Apple ID (through Settings):

  • Open your Apple iPhone 12’s Settings.

  • Scroll down and tap on your name at the top.

  • Next, scroll to the bottom of the screen and choose Sign Out.

  • You’ll be asked to enter your Apple ID passcode and tap Turn Off.

  • Confirm by selecting the data you want to keep on your Apple iPhone 12.

  • Finally, tap Sign Out.

icloud signout option

  • Step 2. Deactivating iMessage and FaceTime:

  • After signing out of your Apple ID, go back to

  • Scroll down to Messages and tap it.

  • Turn off iMessage by flipping the switch.

  • Go back to Settingsand tap FaceTime.

  • Turn off FaceTime by flipping the switch.

messages and facetime in settings

  • Step 3. Reformat the phone:

  • Return to

  • Scroll down and tap

  • Scroll down and select

  • Choose Erase All Content and Settings.

  • Confirm this action. Your Apple iPhone 12 will reset to its original state.

transfer/reset iphone page

Following these steps, your Apple iPhone 12 will be unlinked from your Apple ID and ready for a new user or any other purpose. Remember, this method is best when you can easily recall your Apple ID passcode.

Part 3. What To Do If You Forgot Your Apple ID Passcode

If you still need to remember your Apple ID Passcode, following the steps in the previous section would be unadvisable, as it will leave your Apple iPhone 12 locked and inaccessible. In this case, recovering your Apple ID Passcode is essential before unlinking iPhones.

These are some ways to recover your Apple ID passcode:

Use the Forgot Your Password Option

Start by going to the Apple ID account page or using the “Forgot Your Apple ID or Password?” link on your Apple iPhone 12’s login screen. You must enter your Apple ID and follow the steps provided to reset your passcode. Apple will guide you through resetting your Apple ID passcode, often requiring you to verify your identity via email or other security questions.

sign in with apple id page

Contact Apple Customer Service

If the above method doesn’t work or you’re facing difficulties, contacting Apple Customer Service is a good idea. They can assist you in recovering your Apple ID passcode and provide expert guidance.

After recovering your Apple ID Passcode, you can perform the steps outlined in the previous section to unlink your Apple iPhone 12 normally. With your passcode in hand, the process becomes straightforward, allowing you to maintain control of your device while preparing it for a new user or another purpose. Remember, your Apple ID Passcode is a vital key to unlocking the full potential of your Apple iPhone 12, so it’s essential to keep it safe and secure.

Part 4. If You Can’t Recover Your Passcode: Wondershare Dr.Fone

If, for instance, you find yourself in a situation where you really can’t recover your Apple ID passcode, or perhaps you’ve reformatted your phone without unlinking your Apple ID, leaving it inaccessible, it’s time to turn to a trusted third-party tool to help you unlock and unlink your Apple ID from your Apple iPhone 12.

Wondershare Dr.Fone is a versatile and powerful phone management tool designed to assist you in various aspects of your iOS device. It offers a range of features to help you manage and troubleshoot your Apple iPhone 12, including data recovery, system repair, and device unlocking. It’s a user-friendly solution that caters to your needs when dealing with complex issues like opening your Apple iPhone 12 from an Apple ID.

dr.fone homepage

One of Dr.Fone’s standout features is the Screen Unlock feature. It is an invaluable tool when facing challenges like an inaccessible iPhone due to a forgotten Apple ID passcode or a device that has been reformatted without unlinking the Apple ID. With Dr.Fone – Screen Unlock, you can learn how to unpair iPhones from the previous Apple ID, ensuring you can use it effectively.

Before anything, be warned that this method removes all data from an iPhone. Creating a backup of your phone before performing the steps below is best.

  • Step 1: Launch Dr.Fone. Click Toolbox and then select Screen Unlock (iOS).

  • Step 2: Click Remove Apple ID.

dr.fone screen unlock page

  • Step 3: Connect your Apple iPhone 12 to your computer. Click Unlock Now once you’ve confirmed its connection.

screen unlock connect page

  • Step 4: Click Yes on the screen lock verification page.

screen lock confirmation page

  • Step 5: Click Yes on the Two-Factor Authentication verification page.

confirm two-factor authentication

  • Step 6: Follow the instructions to put your device into Recovery Mode. If they don’t work, click Try DFU Mode.

recovery mode tutorial

  • Step 7: Verify your device details**.** Edit manually for any discrepancies. Click Start once done.

verify device model page

  • Step 8: The firmware will start downloading. If it is slow, click Copy for a direct download link of the firmware.

download in process page

  • Step 9: Click Unlock Now once downloading is done.

firmware download complete

  • Step 10: Input the code “000000” on the appearing prompt and click Unlock.

unlock confirmation prompt

  • Step 11: Avoid any disconnection during the unlocking process.

unlocking apple id ongoing

  • Step 12: Click Done once you see this page. Click Try Again if the method does not work.

Apple ID unlocked page

Conclusion

In summary, this guide has navigated you on how to unlink iPhones from their Apple ID, covering both the normal process and what to do when you’ve forgotten your passcode. However, the critical lesson here is remembering your Apple ID passcode to avoid unnecessary complications.

Should you ever find yourself locked out of your device, Wondershare Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock emerges as your go-to solution. The all-around phone management tool can rescue you from tricky situations and help you unlink your device effortlessly. Remember to keep your Apple ID passcode safe and handy, but know that Dr.Fone has your back when you need it.


Also read:

  • Title: In 2024, How To Erase an Apple iPhone 12 Without Apple ID Password?
  • Author: Alma
  • Created at : 2024-12-15 04:59:13
  • Updated at : 2024-12-19 17:31:48
  • Link: https://apple-account.techidaily.com/in-2024-how-to-erase-an-apple-iphone-12-without-apple-id-password-by-drfone-ios/
  • License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.