How do you reset a forgotten iPhone passcode when the device is Activation Locked?
Answer
Erase the iPhone and sign in with the existing Apple ID to turn off Activation Lock, then set a new passcode. A brand-new Apple ID will not bypass the old account lock.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Erasing the iPhone deletes local data that was not backed up.
- Only use Apple’s official iforgot recovery—not paid unlock services.
Follow these steps
Erase the iPhone
Use Find My on another device/iCloud.com to Erase This Device, or put the iPhone in recovery mode and restore with a computer. Wait for the erase to finish.
You should see: The iPhone returns to the Hello setup screen.
Unlock Activation Lock with the old Apple ID
During setup, enter the Apple ID and password that were previously used on the iPhone. Do not skip with a newly created Apple ID.
You should see: Activation Lock clears and setup continues.
Recover the Apple ID if needed
If you forgot the Apple ID password, use iforgot.apple.com account recovery and wait for Apple’s process to finish before the phone can proceed.
You should see: You regain the Apple ID password and can pass Activation Lock.
Set a new device passcode
Complete setup and create a new Face ID/Touch ID and passcode you will remember. Store it in a password manager.
You should see: The iPhone unlocks with the new passcode.
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Extra tips
What to look for: The iPhone is disabled or needs a passcode reset, and after erase it asks for the previous Apple ID.
Before you change anything: Confirm you know the Apple ID email on the device (Settings may show it on another device, or the lock screen hint). Back up first if the phone still unlocks somehow. Understand erase deletes local data.