iCloud activation lock

Apple recommends that you check for the Activation Lock before you purchase a device from someone else. The person that sold the device to you would have to remove the lock through their iCloud account. If the person is deceased, I don’t see any way of that happening. You likely won’t be able to use the device.

This article provides Apple’s information about the Activation Lock: Activation Lock for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support

kur176 Said:

"iCloud activation lock: I brought this phone off somebody and the person didn’t log out of the iCloud and the guy is deceased so it’s no way to get the info"

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Getting into a Deceased Person's Account:

If this is a family member, then you maybe able to get access to their account. From there unlock it by setting up a Genius Bar Appointment at your local Apple Store. If not a family never, then you're out of luck, being your cannot get into it. See here: How to request access to a deceased family member's Apple account - Apple Support