How do I unlock an iPhone when I forgot the passcode?
Answer
If you cannot get past the iPhone lock screen, the usual path is an official erase and restore through a computer or Find My, then sign in with the Apple Account that was on the phone. Codes from another iPhone will not unlock it.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Erasing deletes data that is not already backed up.
- Paid third-party unlock services are often scams.
Follow these steps
Stop guessing unrelated passcodes
Do not keep trying codes from other phones. Wait out any lockout timer before the next attempt.
You should see: The lock timer clears, or you move to an erase-and-restore path.
Erase with Find My if online
On another device or iCloud.com, sign into the same Apple Account, open Find Devices, select this iPhone, and choose Erase This Device if available.
You should see: Erase starts, or Find My shows the phone offline so you must use a computer.
Restore with a computer
Connect the iPhone to a Mac or PC, enter recovery mode for your model, then choose Restore in Finder or Apple Devices.
You should see: The computer downloads iOS and erases the phone to a setup screen.
Complete Activation Lock
Enter the previous Apple Account email and password, set a new passcode, and restore a backup if you have one.
You should see: The iPhone activates and works with a new passcode.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Messages such as Incorrect Passcode, iPhone Unavailable, or Disabled, and whether Find My was enabled.
Before you change anything: Confirm you know the Apple Account email on this iPhone. Erase removes local data not already backed up. Use a genuine cable and Apple’s official restore steps. Never pay a stranger for an unlock code.