How to factory reset an iPhone SE 2nd gen with a locked account?

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How to factory reset an iPhone SE 2nd gen with a locked account?

Gave my old iPhone SE 2nd gen to a friend... She tried to create an account, and now it says that the account is locked and cannot be used. Has tried to enter passcode and the same thing happens then requests that she contacts apple support. Well, that did not work because of all the security verifications required. I do not have an order receipt for the phone, and all we have is the box. None of these things have worked. Just tried the iforgot site through apple and it give the same "account locked and cannot be used" prompt. Can someone please help me get this iPhone factory reset?? My friend gave up since support was no help and got a new iPhone instead. I just want to reset it so I can get rid of it or use it as a backup phone if anything ever happens to my current iPhone.

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Locked out of account.

iPhone SE (2nd generation)

Posted on Dec 27, 2025 7:16 AM

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Answer 1

Dec 27, 2025 8:02 AM in response to Jozy23

Lets try this again, phrased in a slightly different way.

Presumably the phone is “Activation Locked” to an Apple Account.

Until the authenticated owner of that Apple Account actively releases the lock as described in the article linked below, the phone will remain unusable.

How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support

This is an intentionally-designed theft-deterrent mechanism; intended to render a misappropriated device virtually worthless.

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