How do I unlock an iPhone that asks for a passcode I never set?
Answer
An iPhone passcode cannot be viewed once it is forgotten; the official path is to erase the iPhone with a computer or Recovery Mode, then restore from an Apple ID backup if one exists.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Erasing the iPhone deletes data that is not already backed up.
- Avoid third-party unlock services that ask for payment or remote access; they are often scams.
Follow these steps
Note the lock state
If the screen says to try again in a set time, wait until that timer ends before continuing. Do not keep guessing passcodes.
You should see: The phone allows another attempt or is ready for recovery mode.
Connect to a computer
Use a cable to connect the iPhone to a Mac or Windows PC with Finder, iTunes, or Apple Devices installed and open.
You should see: The computer recognizes that an iPhone is connected.
Enter recovery mode and erase
Quickly press Volume Up, then Volume Down, then press and hold the Side button until the recovery-mode screen appears. On the computer, choose Restore to erase the iPhone.
You should see: The iPhone erases and reinstalls iOS.
Activate and restore
Set up the iPhone, sign in with the Apple ID that owns the device, then restore from an iCloud or computer backup if available.
You should see: The iPhone unlocks to setup and your apps or data return from backup if one existed.
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Extra tips
What to look for: A passcode screen or iPhone Unavailable / try again later message, and whether you still know the Apple ID password for the device
Before you change anything: Confirm you know the Apple ID email and password for this iPhone. Understand that erase removes data not already backed up. Prefer an official computer erase over unknown unlock tools. Never give the passcode or Apple ID to someone who contacts you unexpectedly.