What does "Activation Lock" mean? iOS Error Explained
Quick answer: Your iPhone is locked to the previous owner's Apple ID. You cannot use it until the previous owner removes it from their account.
Okay, this needs your attention
Your iPhone is locked to the previous owner's Apple ID. You cannot use it until the previous owner removes it from their account.
1Why you're seeing "Activation Lock" on iOS
- Purchased a used iPhone that was not properly reset
- Previous owner did not sign out of iCloud
- iPhone was stolen and reported as lost
- Find My iPhone was enabled and not disabled
2How to fix "Activation Lock" error on iOS
Contact the previous owner to remove the device from their Apple ID.
If you are the owner, sign in with your Apple ID and password.
If you bought it, contact the seller to remove Activation Lock.
If stolen, contact Apple with proof of purchase.
How long will "Activation Lock" error last?
Until the previous owner removes it from their account.
Frequently asked questions about "Activation Lock"
Can Apple unlock it?
Only with proof of purchase. Apple takes Activation Lock seriously to prevent theft.
People also search for
You might also see these iOS errors
Still having trouble?
Get official help from iOS support team
Summary: Activation Lock on iOS
The error message "Activation Lock" on iOS typically means: Your iPhone is locked to the previous owner's Apple ID. You cannot use it until the previous owner removes it from their account.
This is a high severity issue that usually occurs due to purchased a used iphone that was not properly reset. To fix this, contact the previous owner to remove the device from their apple id.
Until the previous owner removes it from their account.
If you're still experiencing this ios error after trying these steps, check out our related error message guides or search for more specific solutions.