How do I erase a lost iPhone and still file an AT&T claim?
Answer
Use iCloud.com/find with any Apple ID that still remembers the lost iPhone to mark it lost or erase it. Recover the Apple ID password on iforgot.apple.com before that if needed. For AT&T insurance or device claims, recover the AT&T login separately on the official AT&T site, then file the claim with the device details.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Erasing an iPhone deletes its data when the erase completes and cannot be undone remotely afterward.
- Only use Apple and AT&T official sites for password recovery—fake unlock helpers are common scams.
Follow these steps
Recover the Apple ID if needed
On a browser, open iforgot.apple.com, enter the Apple ID email used on the lost iPhone, and follow Apple’s official reset steps using trusted phone numbers or email.
You should see: You can sign into the Apple ID again.
Mark the iPhone lost or erase it in Find My
Go to iCloud.com/find or the Find Devices page, sign in with that Apple ID, select the lost iPhone, then use Mark As Lost or Erase This Device.
You should see: The device shows as pending lost mode or erase when it comes online.
Recover AT&T account access
On the official AT&T website or app, use Forgot password / account recovery for the AT&T login tied to the line. Do not use links from unexpected texts.
You should see: You can sign into the AT&T account that carries the lost phone’s line.
File the AT&T claim with device details
In AT&T account tools or insurance partner flow, start the lost/stolen or device claim and enter IMEI, model, and police or loss details if requested.
You should see: AT&T or the insurer provides a claim confirmation number and next steps.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Forgot password on Apple or AT&T sign-in, and a lost iPhone that still appears under Find Devices
Before you change anything: Write down the iPhone model and any IMEI from the box, receipt, or old AT&T bills. Recover Apple ID on Apple’s official iforgot site only. Recover AT&T on the official AT&T website or app only. Never share Apple or AT&T one-time codes with unexpected callers.