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User profile for user: BNK3SIXX
BNK3SIXX Author
User level: Level 1
4 points

Purchased an activation locked iPhone SE

So I recently bought a iPhone SE that someone had lost to a pawnshop and the tech person who tried to factory reset the iPhone failed to do it correctly and it’s now activation locked and they no longer have the original owners records or information.

At this point I have no clue how to go about getting it unlocked and working.

Is there anyway to get past the activation lock? or am I just at a complete loss with the device because the pawnshop I purchased it from refuses to refund me or exchange it due to their own mistakes. so It’s currently stuck in the beginning setup screen.

What else can I do or can anyone help guide me in the right direction to get it unlocked?





iPhone 8, iOS 14

Posted on Nov 30, 2020 7:29 AM

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User profile for user: Phil0124
Phil0124
Community+ 2024
User level: Level 10
205,243 points

Posted on Nov 30, 2020 7:33 AM

Sorry, there's nothing to do.


Activation lock cannot be bypassed. Its an anti-theft mechanism and you need the original owner's Apple ID and password to unlock it.


Apple won't help you unlock it unless you can provide official proof of purchase from them or an Authorized reseller. The Pawnshop receipt will not work.


At this point all you can do is cut your losses. There will be no way to get that iPhone working. Next time verify the iPhone is unlocked and ready to be used before buying.


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User profile for user: Phil0124
Phil0124
Community+ 2024
User level: Level 10
205,243 points

Nov 30, 2020 7:33 AM in response to BNK3SIXX

Sorry, there's nothing to do.


Activation lock cannot be bypassed. Its an anti-theft mechanism and you need the original owner's Apple ID and password to unlock it.


Apple won't help you unlock it unless you can provide official proof of purchase from them or an Authorized reseller. The Pawnshop receipt will not work.


At this point all you can do is cut your losses. There will be no way to get that iPhone working. Next time verify the iPhone is unlocked and ready to be used before buying.


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Purchased an activation locked iPhone SE

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