How To Check If The Previous Owner Removed Apple ID Lock (Activation Lock)

Buying a used iPhone or iPad? One big worry is whether the device is still linked to the previous owner's Apple ID. If the Activation Lock isn't removed, the device might be unusable. Here's a simple guide to check if the Apple ID lock is gone.

 

Method 1: Check the Device Settings

 

Look for the Apple ID in Settings

Open the device's Settings app.

Tap the Apple ID name at the top. If there's no account logged in, that's a good sign.

If you see an Apple ID, check if "Find My iPhone" is turned off:

Go to Settings > [Apple ID Name] > Find My.

Make sure "Find My iPhone" is OFF.

 

Try Erasing the Device

Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.

After erasing, if the device asks for the previous owner's Apple ID password during setup, the lock is still there. If it activates normally, the lock is removed.

 

Method 2: Check Using the Serial Number/IMEI

 

Find the Serial Number or IMEI

On the device: Go to Settings > General > About.

If the screen is broken: Check the back of the device, the SIM tray, or the original box.

 

Use Online Tools to Check

Free tools: Use apps like i4Tools or Sandglass Assistant (download on a computer) to check the lock status. Some WeChat public accounts (like "GuoKuai Appraisal") also offer free checks.

Paid services: Search for "GSX Check" on Taobao (costs 3–3–7). Send them the IMEI, and they'll tell you if the lock is active.

 

Method 3: Reinstall the System (For Extra Safety)

If you're still unsure, reinstalling the system (called "flashing" or "restoring") will reveal hidden locks:

Connect the device to a computer.

Use iTunes (or apps like i4Tools) to reinstall the latest iOS.

After reinstalling, try activating the device:

If it asks for the old Apple ID password, the lock is still there.

Warning: This will delete all data on the device. Do this only if you're sure there's nothing important saved!

 

Method 4: Watch Out for Fake "Unlocked" Devices

 

Some sellers use tricks to hide the Apple ID lock. Here's how to avoid them:

Check if the device is jailbroken: Go to Settings. If you see apps like "Cydia", it's jailbroken (and possibly hiding a lock).

Always reinstall the system: Even if the device seems unlocked, reinstalling iOS will show the truth.

 

Important Notes

When buying used devices: Ask the seller to erase the device in front of you and activate it again.

Contact Apple Support: If you're confused, call Apple (official number: +86-400-666-8800) and ask them to check the lock status with the serial number.

Avoid shady sellers: Never buy devices from strangers online without testing them first. Stolen devices often still have Activation Locks.

 

By following these steps, you can avoid buying a locked device. If the lock is still active, contact the seller immediately. A truly unlocked device should let you set it up like new without any old accounts! 😊