How to Verify If a Used iPhone Is Activation Locked

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Find the device identifier

   Locate the Serial Number or IMEI of the iPhone. Navigate to Settings, tap General, and select About to view these identifiers, or check the SIM tray if the device is not currently activated.

   Note: If the device is on the Hello screen, tap the small blue 'i' icon in the bottom right corner to display the Serial Number.
2. 30 sec

   Access the Apple support page

   Open a web browser on any device and navigate to the official Apple Check Activation Lock status page. Ensure you are on the verified apple.com domain to avoid phishing attempts.

3. 1 min

   Enter device credentials

   Input the Serial Number or IMEI found in Step 1 into the designated text field. Complete the CAPTCHA image challenge to prove you are a human user.

4. 30 sec

   Interpret the lock status

   Review the result. If the screen displays 'Activation Lock: On', the device is linked to a previous owner's Apple ID and cannot be used without their credentials. If it displays 'Off', the device is unlocked and safe to pair with your own Apple ID.

   Note: Never purchase a device that shows 'Activation Lock: On' as it cannot be bypassed.
5. 1 min

   Perform a physical check

   Power on the device to confirm it proceeds to the standard Setup Assistant rather than a custom management screen. If the device asks for a 'Remote Management' login, it is enrolled in an organization’s MDM profile.

   Note: MDM locks are distinct from Activation Locks and usually require the organization's authorization to remove.