Activation lock

You need the Apple ID and password that was used when the device was first set up. If you don’t know that, you can’t remove the Activation Lock.

If this is a used device, the previous owner needs to go to https://www.icloud.com/find/ and erase the device, then remove it from their account. If they won't do that, the device is useless. Apple won't unlock it.

Turn off Activation Lock - Apple Support.   *

If you are the original owner, contact Apple. Apple can remove the ID  if provided the required paperwork to include the original purchase receipt with the serial number on it. 

Request additional support for unlocking your device.    -

You used to be able to take the device, the original purchase receipt with the serial number, and a photo ID to the nearest Apple Store (if it has reopened) and have them remove the ID. This may have changed, so call the store before going to make sure they can help.

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple.   -

See if you can recover the ID/password. An iCloud e-mail address is an Apple ID. Use every email address you can think of.

Apple ID - How to find your Apple  -  

Apple ID - Find  -     

Other ways to find your Apple ID

You can check to see if you're signed in to the App Store, FaceTime, or Messages on your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Mac, or check to see if you're signed in to iTunes for Windows on a PC. You can also go to iCloud.com or appleid.apple.com and see if your Apple ID prefills on the sign-in screen.   

If you forgot the Apple ID (iCloud) password, enter the Apple (iCloud) ID, and click Forgot Password. See if you can get a Rescue or Notification email option if necessary. Link to contact Apple Support at the end of the 2nd article.

Apple ID - Manage

Apple ID – Forgot Password  *      

Normally, you need a copy of the original purchase receipt with the serial number on it. You can try asking Apple to remove it.

Request additional support for unlocking your device. 

You can try again, but without the purchase receipt they will probably deny your request.