How can I remove the Activation Lock for iPhone?

amavlonov wrote:

Hello Apple Support,

My friend recently reset his iPhone 13, which he purchased as a device on February 28, 2024. After the reset, the device is now activation locked, and unfortunately, he cannot remember the Apple ID (iCloud email) or the password associated with the phone.

We are seeking assistance in recovering access to the phone. He is the rightful owner and can provide proof of purchase if needed.

Could you please advise on the next steps to verify ownership and unlock the device?

Since ones Apple Account is one's email address, HOW did they forget their own email address? Did your friend instead buy a used iPhone, which was NOT prepared properly for a new user and when it was reset, it became activation locked waiting for the actual Account and Password which were used to originally set up the iPhone. If my guess is correct, your friend likely now owns a totally useless device unless they know the previous owner and can get that person to remove the phone from their account. Apple will NEVER remove Activation Lock for anyone other than the original owner and then ONLY with the original purchase receipt, which clearly shows the serial number on it. Without that a request to Apple to remove Activation Lock will be denied and that will leave your friend with a paperweight they simply cannot use.

Read this is my guess is correct that they bought a used iPhone 13 --> The All Too Common SAD Reality of Buying … - Apple Community

The steps to remove the Activation Lock are provided here. The proof of purchase will be required and will likely need to be from Apple or Authorized Apple Seller. Apple does not get involved in any third party sales, so a purchase receipt from any other location is usually refused.

https://al-support.apple.com/#/additional-support

If it was purchased used from another party, review the information provided here:

The All Too Common SAD Reality of Buying … - Apple Community