How do I fix an iPhone that asks for someone else's Apple ID password when downloading apps?
Answer
The phone is still tied to a previous Apple ID for purchases or iCloud. In Settings, sign out of that Apple ID with the option that keeps data on the iPhone when available, then sign in with the correct Apple ID before downloading apps.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Do not erase the iPhone unless you mean to wipe it; choose sign-out options that keep data when you only need to change accounts.
- You cannot lawfully reset or take over someone else's Apple ID; the previous owner may need to sign out or remove Activation Lock.
Follow these steps
See which Apple ID the iPhone is using
Open Settings and tap the name at the top. Note the Apple ID email shown. Also open Settings > App Store or Media & Purchases if listed and check the signed-in account there.
You should see: You can see whether iCloud and the App Store are using the unfamiliar email.
Sign out of the wrong Apple ID without erasing the phone
From Settings, sign out of the Apple ID that does not belong on this phone. When asked about keeping data on the iPhone, choose the option that keeps contacts, photos, or other data on the device if you need them, rather than erase options.
You should see: Settings no longer shows that unfamiliar Apple ID, and the iPhone data you chose to keep remains.
Sign in with the correct Apple ID
Sign in at the top of Settings with the Apple ID that should own this iPhone. Then open the App Store and try downloading a free app again.
You should see: The App Store asks for your Apple ID password, not the other email.
Handle apps still locked to the old account
If an older app still demands the previous Apple ID, delete that app and reinstall it while signed into your account, or keep using it only if you have permission and the password for the original purchaser.
You should see: New downloads use your account; leftover apps either reinstall cleanly or remain clearly tied to the old purchaser.
Use official recovery only for your own account
If your own Apple ID password is unknown, use Apple's official iforgot.apple.com recovery. Do not keep trying to reset an email that is not yours or that Apple reports as invalid or unsupported.
You should see: You either recover your own account through Apple, or you stop attempting resets on an account you do not control.
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Extra tips
What to look for: The exact email shown on the App Store password prompt, the Apple ID listed at the top of Settings, and any message such as sign out without erasing data.
Before you change anything: Know which Apple ID email should own this iPhone. If the phone was used or set up by someone else, ask them to sign out if you do not have their password. Prefer "Sign out" options that do not erase the iPhone when you only need to change accounts. Never pay a stranger or popup service to reset an Apple ID.