How do I reset a forgotten iPhone passcode?
Answer
If you forgot the iPhone passcode, erase the device with your Apple Account using the on-device forgot-passcode flow, iCloud Find My, or a computer recovery erase, then restore from backup. There is no supported way to view the old passcode.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Erasing an iPhone deletes data that is not in a backup.
- Third-party passcode unlock tools are unsafe and often scams.
Follow these steps
Try the on-device erase path
Keep attempting unlock until iOS offers Forgot Passcode or Erase iPhone, then follow the prompts and sign in with the Apple Account that owns the device.
You should see: The iPhone erases and reaches the setup screen.
Use Find My erase if needed
From another device or iCloud.com, open Find My, select the iPhone, and choose Erase This Device if the phone is online enough to receive the command.
You should see: The iPhone is erased remotely and can be set up again.
Use a computer recovery erase if required
If on-device options fail, connect to a Mac or PC and use Finder/Apple Devices/iTunes recovery mode to erase and restore iOS.
You should see: The iPhone restores to setup without the old passcode.
Set a new passcode and restore data
During setup, sign in with the Apple Account, create a new passcode, and restore from iCloud or computer backup if available.
You should see: You can unlock the iPhone with the new passcode and recover backed-up data.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Forgot Passcode or Erase iPhone option on the lock screen after failed attempts, Find My availability, and whether you know the Apple Account password
Before you change anything: Confirm you know the Apple Account password or recovery path. Backups made before the lockout are the only way to restore apps/data. Erasing removes data not already backed up. Do not use unpaid third-party unlock tools.