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 Apple ID and Apple Password On Apple iPhone 12

Forgetting your Apple ID or password sucks, right! You are locked out of App Store, iCloud and iTunes, literally all of Apple. It becomes impossible to view your files on iCloud or to download anything from App store or iTunes if you forgot Apple ID password. Well luckily, you are not the first person to forget Apple ID or forgot iPhone password . You can rest it easy because we have prepared this guide just for you.

In this guide, we will uncover all the safeguards that Apple has put in place to help you recover your Apple account. We will walk you through 5 methods of how you can reset your password or recover your Apple ID from any web browser or iOS device.

Part 1: A Preliminary Check

Before doing anything else, it may just happen that you have not forgotten Apple ID password but you are just making a small mistake when signing in to your account. Here is a quick checklist you should review before subjecting yourself to a meaningless hassle:

1. Turn off your Caps Lock as you type in your password unless you have uppercase letters in your password of course.
2. If you have more than one email address, you could sometimes get them mixed up so review the email you are using to sign in. You could also have made a spelling mistake in your email address.
3. Lastly, your sign in attempts may be fruitless because your account has been disabled for security reasons. In this case you should receive a notification asking you to reset your password so go over your emails.

If none of the above solutions work, you can safely conclude that you forgot Apple ID password but not to worry, we’ve has got you covered. Also, before we proceed with any solutions, it’s better to backup iPhone without passcode , to invoid any data loss during the process.

Part 2: Recover or Reset Forgotten Apple ID or Password on iPhone/iPad

The following is the first method you should try out to log back into your Apple account. This is because even though it isn’t a guaranteed method, it is the simplest method by which to recover forgotten Apple ID.

1. In your iOS device, go to Settings, then scroll down to “iCloud.”
2. Tap on the email address, which is at the top of the iCloud screen.
3. Tap on “Forgot Apple ID or Password?” Now you have one of two options:

• • If you forgot the Password, type your Apple ID, and click “Next.”
• • If you forgot the Apple ID, then click on “Forgot your Apple ID?” You’ll have to enter your full name and details, and then you’ll receive your Apple ID.

5. You’ll have to answer your security questions to receive your Apple ID.

However, this process will only work if you know either your Apple ID, or your Password, and the answers to your security questions. If not, then you can follow the next methods.

You May Like: How to Reset iPhone Without Apple ID >>

Part 3: Recover/Reset Apple Password via Email or Security Questions

This method only works if you have a verified recovery email for your Apple account or a set of security questions that you set up. The recovery instructions can be sent to your recovery email or you can answer the security questions on the Apple website. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Go to iforgot.apple.com on your web browser.
2. You should see an option for “Enter your Apple ID”. Click on it and type in your Apple ID to embark on the road to recovery. If for some reason, you forgot Apple ID as well, it’s not over yet! Go to the Part 4 for a recovery solution.
3. Tap on “my password.”
4. Click the “Next” button.
5. You should now see two options. Click on “Get an email” to receive the account reset instructions on your recovery email. If you have security questions that you had set up, click on “Answer Security Questions” to recover your account right there on the website.

Note: Having a recovery email for your Apple account is probably the easiest method for future recovery. If you however prefer security questions, avoid obvious questions and instead use questions that only you can get.

Also Read: How to Remove iCloud Account with or without Password >>

Part 4: Reset Apple ID with no need to remember Password and Email

If you want to try a 100% working technique to reset Apple ID, then use Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) . The application would get rid of the Apple ID linked to the Apple iPhone 12 device without any related details like email id or password. Though, you should know that this will cause the loss of stored data on your device. You can reset Apple ID using Dr.Fone – Screen Unlock (iOS) easily, but make sure that you don’t use it for any illegal activity.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock

Unlock Disabled iPhone in 5 Minutes.

• Easy operations to unlock iPhone without the passcode.
• Removes the Apple iPhone 12 lock screen without relying on iTunes.
• Works for all models of iPhone, iPad and iPod touch.
• Fully compatible with the latest iOS/iPadOS version.

4,395,216 people have downloaded it

Step 1: Connect your Apple iPhone 12 to the system

Firstly, connect your iOS device to the system using a working lightning cable. Also, launch the Dr.Fone toolkit and visit the “Screen Unlock” section from its home.

Now, you will be given an option to either unlock an Android or an iOS device. Simply select the option to unlock Apple ID of the Apple iPhone 12 device.

Step 2: Trust the computer

Whenever we connect an iOS device to a new system, we get a “Trust This Computer” prompt on it. If you get the same pop-up, then just tap on the “Trust” button. This will give the application access to your smartphone.

Step 3: Reset and restart your phone

To proceed, the application would require erasing the Apple iPhone 12 device. As the following prompt will appear, you can enter the on-screen displayed code to confirm your choice. Afterward, click on the “Unlock Now” button.

Step 4: Reset Apple ID

As the Apple iPhone 12 device restarted, the application would follow the needed process to reset its Apple ID. You can wait for a few minutes for the process to be completed.

When the Apple ID is unlocked, you will be notified. You can now safely remove the Apple iPhone 12 device and use it the way you like.

safe & secure

Part 5: Forgot Apple ID? How to Reset Apple ID

Like your password, Apple can help you recover your Apple ID or username as well. Just follow this concise guide:

1. Open any web browser and go to the following URL: iforgot.apple.com .
2. Click the “Forgot Apple ID” option.
3. You will be prompted to enter your First Name, Last Name and your Email Address.
4. You also have the option of entering up to 3 email addresses that you have used in the past.
5. Click the “Next” button after which you will be presented with two other options. Click “Reset By Email” to receive the account reset instructions on your recovery email. Alternatively, click on “Answer Security Questions” to recover your Apple account right there on the website.

Also Read: 3 Ways to Recover iCloud Password >>

Part 6: Using Apple’s Two-step Verification (Forgot Apple Password)

Two-step authentication is an old Apple security feature and it still happens to be up and running. If you had set it up for your account, you can use it if you forgot Apple ID password. Here’s how it works:

1. Go to the URL iforgot.apple.com .
2. Click the “Enter your Apple ID” option and type in your Apple ID to launch the recovery process.
3. You should be prompted to enter your recovery key. Type it in and click “Continue”.

1. You should then choose a trusted recovery device that is currently available to you and click “Next”.
2. Apple should send a verification code to the Apple iPhone 12 device you selected. Enter this code as requested on the website and click “Next”.
3. After the verification is complete, you can now set up a new password and hopefully, you’ll remember it this time.

Note: Be wary of using recovery keys! Though they are a very secure and effective method of password recovery, you could easily get permanently locked out of your Apple account. When using a recovery key, you initially need:

1. An Apple ID password.
2. A trusted device that you can easily access.
3. The actual Recovery Key.

Now if you happen to lose any two of the above at the same time, there is no way of recovering your account and you simply have to create a new one.

Also Read: How to Factory Reset iPhone without Passcode >>

Part 7: Using Apple’s Two-Factor Authentication (Forgot Apple ID Password)

This is a new account recovery option that is built into iOS 9 and OS X El Capitan. If you have enabled it for your account, you can change or reset Apple password from iforgot.apple.com or from any trusted iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch if you forgot your Apple ID password. The trusted device, however, only works if it has a passcode enabled.

How to reset Apple password on Your own iPhone

1. Open iforgot.apple.com on any web browser and enter your Apple ID.
2. You can now choose to “Reset from another device,” or you can “Use trusted phone number.” Choose either option, then click “Continue.”

1. It would help if you now waited for prompt requesting access to the trusted device or phone number. Click “Allow.” You can now reset your password.

Recover/reset Apple password on a trusted Apple iOS device

1. On the Apple iPhone 12 device, open Settings > iCloud.
2. Select your name, then select “Password & Security.”
3. Select “Change Password” and enter your new password. Voila! You’re now reunited with your account.

If you can’t access the trusted device, you can recover your password on any other iOS device:

Recover/reset Apple password on any other iOS device

1. Open Settings > iCloud.
2. Select Forgot Apple ID and Password.
3. Follow the given steps to recover your account.

Now, if none of these methods work and you’re completely locked out and completely frustrated, then you should contact Apple and seek their help to regain access to your account.

Part 8: Recover lost data (Forgot Apple ID or Apple Password)

If you can’t log into your Apple account even after all this hassle, and if you’re permanently locked out of your iCloud and Apple accounts, then you can try to recover iCloud password , but your biggest concern should be to save and recover as much data as possible.

Because the iCloud and Apple passwords are the same, you would also lose all the data that you’ve kept in your iCloud. However, you can retrieve it all using third-party software called Dr.Fone - Data Recovery (iOS) .

Dr.Fone - Data Recovery (iOS)

World’s 1st iPhone and iPad data recovery software.

• Fast, simple and reliable.
• Recover lost data directly from iPhone, iTunes backup and iCloud backup.
• Recover data lost due to deletion, device loss, jailbreak, iOS upgrade, etc.
• Preview and selectively recover what you want from iPhone, iTunes and iCloud backup.
• Compatible with all iOS devices.

3,680,398 people have downloaded it

Conclusion

With this guide, we now hope that you have been reunited with your estranged Apple account. To save yourself this hassle in the future, create a password close to your heart and pops up in your head every time you see a password field.

If you get permanently locked out of your Apple or iCloud accounts, you could also use the Dr.Fone solution we mentioned to recover whatever data you can. Have they been able to help you? Do you know of other solutions to the problem of losing your Apple ID and Password ? If so, we’d love to hear from you Do leave a comment and let us know what you think about our solutions.!