Locked out of Apple Account after multiple failed password attempts

Question

Level 1

14 points

Locked out of Apple Account after multiple failed password attempts

Tried my password too many times and I’m locked out…I just changed my password again and still can’t try more than once. I went to the iforgotpassword.com and changed it a couple more times and no matter which one I try, it doesn’t work. I entered the newest password ONCE and am locked out for another 3 hours. Not 1 min, not 15 mins…3 hours!! I fear that I’ve bricked the darn thing. I don’t want to have Apple erase my data and have to start over. I’m having enough issues with switching from Windows to MacOS. I looked for solutions on here and can’t quite find the answer I need. Can someone please help me decide how to proceed?

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Locked out of accounts

Mac mini (M4)

Posted on Sep 19, 2025 08:22 PM

Reply

Answer 1

Limnos

Level 10

424,325 points

Sep 19, 2025 08:32 PM in response to hoozieg

Have you tried restarting your device and see if it takes a fresh look at settings?

I have never actually forgotten a password, though on rare occasions I mistype it. When that happens I can re-enter it immediately, so I can't say I have ever had your problem before. Apple doesn't say this anywhere but I think it is possible that they may set up a timer after too many attempts to discourage somebody from just sitting there all day and entering passwords. Since you say you just changed your password them I presume you know it and it should go through, If doing this on a computer (you do not say), make sure it isn't something simple such as the caps key is locked.

Reply

Answer 2

hoozieg Author

Level 1

14 points

Sep 19, 2025 10:04 PM in response to Limnos

Yes I restarted my MacMini M4 a few times and re-typed the reset password(s) several times before being locked out. I wish Apple would let you click on an eyeball or something to be able to see what you’ve typed. I also wish they would allow copy/paste and autofill of passwords. I use Bitwarden to generate random passwords to assure not being hacked. This, however, makes it nearly impossible to remember them all and since you can’t use autofill…..! And yes I checked carefully to see if the caps and numbers are correct and the caps lock is not on.

Reply