How do I get out of iPhone Security Lockout after forgetting the passcode?
Answer
On Security Lockout, wait for the on-screen timer to finish, then try only the one passcode you believe is correct. If that still fails, erase the iPhone with the on-screen Erase option or a computer recovery restore, then set it up again with your Apple ID—data not in iCloud or a backup is usually lost.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Erasing or restoring the iPhone deletes local data that is not already backed up to iCloud or a computer.
- Stop if a site or caller asks you to pay to unlock an iPhone or install unknown software.
Follow these steps
Wait for the Security Lockout timer
Leave the iPhone powered on and wait until the lock screen allows another passcode attempt. Do not keep guessing randomly during the wait—that can lengthen the lockout.
You should see: The passcode keypad returns after the timer ends.
Enter only your best single passcode
Type carefully the one passcode you believe is correct. Avoid trying many variations in a row. If it unlocks, go to Settings and change the passcode to something memorable stored in a password manager.
You should see: The iPhone unlocks, or Security Lockout returns with a longer wait.
Use Erase iPhone on the lock screen if shown
If the screen offers Erase iPhone, tap it and follow the prompts. Sign in with the Apple ID that was on the device when asked. This wipes the phone so you can set a new passcode.
You should see: The iPhone erases and restarts at the Hello setup screen.
Recover with a computer if Erase is not available
On a Mac or PC with the latest Apple support software, put the iPhone into recovery mode using Apple’s official button sequence for your model, then choose Restore in Finder or the Apple Devices/iTunes app.
You should see: The computer restores iOS and the iPhone returns to setup.
Set up again and restore from backup if you have one
During setup, sign in with your Apple ID, then restore from an iCloud or computer backup if one exists. If this was a brand-new phone with no backup yet, continue as new and re-download apps from the App Store.
You should see: The iPhone is usable again with a new passcode and any available backup restored.
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Extra tips
What to look for: A Security Lockout screen with a countdown timer, an Erase iPhone option, or a message that iPhone is unavailable.
Before you change anything: Confirm this is an Apple iPhone Security Lockout screen. Know the Apple ID email and password used with the phone. Assume erasing removes local data that is not already in iCloud or a backup. Use only Apple’s on-screen erase or official Finder/iTunes recovery steps. Never share Apple ID passwords or codes with unexpected callers.