How to Remove Activation Lock Without Previous Owner on iPhone/iPad [2025]

Part 1. Why are Apple devices locked by Activation Lock?

Apple's Activation Lock is designed for the security of your iPhone or iPad. It uses the "Find My" feature which keeps the connection intact with the original owner's Apple ID. You might encounter this lock for a few simple reasons:

• The device was lost or stolen and locked for security.
• The previous owner is not signed out of iCloud.
• The phone was reset, but Find My iPhone remained active.
• You bought a used device and it is still connected to the previous owner's account.

If this happens to you, don't worry. There are ways to remove Activation Lock without the previous owner, and we will show you how in the following steps.

Part 2. Six ways to remove Activation Lock without the previous owner

Now that you know why Apple devices are locked, let's look at how to resolve it. Below are six ways to remove Activation Lock without the previous owner. Some methods are quick and easy, while others may require tools or additional steps.

Solution 1: Remove Activation Lock without the previous owner via Pro UnlockTool [Safe & Simple]

One of the most reliable methods to remove Activation Lock without the previous owner is to use a tool calledUltFone iPhone Unlock. It works well on iPhones and iPads, even if you don't know the Apple ID or password.

This software helps you unlock your device in just a few clicks. It supports many iOS versions from iOS 12 to iOS 26 and works for various types of locks, including Activation Lock, screen hour, MDM, and more.

Key features of UltFone iPhone Unlock

• Supports removal of iCloud Activation Lock without needing the Apple ID or password.
• Works on iPhones and iPads running iOS 12 to iOS 26.
• It can unlock all types of locks, including screen codes, Apple ID, screen hour, and MDM.
• Allows you to connect with a new Apple ID after unlocking.
• Bypass screen hour without deleting your data.
• Offers a safe and fast jailbreak process as part of unlocking.

Steps to remove Activation Lock without the previous owner with UltFone iPhone Unlock

• Step 1Download UltFone iPhone Unlock on your computer and launch it. Select "Remove iCloud Activation Lock".

• Step 2Use a USB cable to connect your device. Click Next to proceed.

• Step 3The tool will guide your device into Recovery Mode to protect your system.

• Step 4UltFone will automatically start the jailbreak process. Wait for a few minutes.

• Step 5Once completed, the Activation Lock will be removed. You can now set up your device with your own Apple ID.

Solution 2: Remove Activation Lock without the previous owner via DNS bypass [Low success rate]

This is one of the older and free methods people have used to get limited access to their iPhones or iPads. But let's be clear: this is not a full unlock. You won't be able to use all apps or settings, and it doesn't work for all devices. Best for older iOS versions (iOS 8 to iOS 17), and even in this case, the success rate is low.

However, if you want a free option to try before using a paid tool, here's how toremove Activation Lock without the previous ownerfor free.

Quick DNS bypass method

• Press the Home button and go to Settings > Wi-Fi.
• Press the small "i" icon next to the Wi-Fi network you are trying to connect to.

• Delete the existing DNS and enter the new one for your region:
  • USA/North America: 104.154.51.7
  • Europe: 104.155.28.90
  • Asia: 104.155.220.58
  • Other regions: 78.109.17.60
  
• Press Back, then on Activation Help.

If it works, you will see a message saying “You have successfully connected to my server.”

Try the full bypass for more access

• Press Menu > Apps > Crash. This will restart your iPhone.
• After the restart, select your language and country, then press the Home button and go back to Wi-Fi settings.
• Press again on the "i" icon next to your Wi-Fi, and scroll down to HTTP PROXY.

• In the Server field, type about 30 different emojis. Then, in the Port field, type 15 to 30 random letters or numbers.
• Now, swipe the unlock screen and change languages several times. After repeating this for a while, your iPhone's home screen may appear.

Solution 3: Remove Activation Lock via iCloud Web [Requires Apple ID]

This method only works when the original owner is willing to help. Without their Apple ID connection, you won't be able to complete the process. But if you can contact them, this is the safest and most official way to remove Activation Lock.

Steps to bypass Find My iPhone

• Ask the previous owner to open a browser and go to iCloud.com. They should log in using the same Apple ID that was used on your locked iPhone or iPad.
• After logging in, they must click on "Find iPhone" in the menu. This allows them to manage devices linked to the Apple ID.
• At the top of the screen, they will see an option that says “All Devices”. In the list, they must select the iPhone or iPad they sold or gave to you.
• Once selected, they must click on “Erase iPhone” (or iPad), then click on “Remove from Account”.

Solution 4: Remove Activation Lock without the previous owner via IMEI number [Limited option and risky]

You might come across websites claiming you can unlock your iPhone using just the IMEI number. While this may seem easy, it's not as simple or reliable as they imply. Apple does not support unlocking Activation Lock via IMEI unless you are the original owner and can provide proof of purchase. Most websites offering IMEI unlocking are third-party services, and many either don't work or end up charging you even after stating it's free.

Still curious? Here's what the process generally looks like:

• Find the IMEI number of your iPhone. Simply open the Phone app and dial *#06#, or go to Settings > General > About and scroll to see it.
• Look for an IMEI unlocking tool online. You'll see names like iFinder or UnlockMaker. These services will ask for your IMEI and phone model to start the process.
• Wait for a fake or partial scan report. Most services will tell you that your device is “ready for unlocking” but will ask for payment to continue.
• Pay (not recommended) to complete the unlocking. Even after payment, success is not guaranteed. Many users report no results or hidden charges.

Solution 5: Remove Activation Lock without the previous owner via IPSW [Requires computer]

Using a custom IPSW file is one of the more technical ways to remove iCloud Activation Lock. It involves modifying firmware files and then installing them on your iPhone. This method may work for older iPhones, but it's very complicated and carries a high risk of failure. A small mistake can even "brick" your device, rendering it unusable. So, if you're not very comfortable with technology or don't want to take risks, this may not be the best option for you.

• Download the correct IPSW file for your iPhone from ipsw.me.

• Rename the IPSW file extension to .zip. Then, extract the contents using any file extractor.
• If you have a custom IPSW folder, open both the original folder and the custom folder. Now, copy the files from the custom folder and replace the corresponding ones in the original folder.
• Once replaced, select all files in the original folder. Right click > “Add to archive” > select ZIP format and click OK.
• Rename the .zip file to .ipsw.
• Use 3uTools (a third-party tool for flashing firmware) to update your iPhone using the newly created IPSW file.

Solution 6: Remove Activation Lock without the previous owner by contacting Apple Support [Difficult process]

Apple Support can help you remove Activation Lock, but only under certain conditions. You will need to provide proof that you are the legitimate owner, such as the original purchase receipt. In cases where the device belonged to a deceased person, a death certificate might also be required.

Go to the Apple support website, provide details of your device (IMEI and others), and attach all necessary documents to the submission. After they confirm it, Apple can remove the lock from your device.

Part 3. How to avoid getting stuck on the activation lock screen

To reduce the chances of needing to remove Activation Lock, follow these important tips:

• Use Apple's Activation Lock status tool or ask the seller to remove and sign out of iCloud before buying.
• Always turn off “Find My iPhone” before selling. This disables Activation Lock and prepares the device for the next user.
• If you buy a used device, ask for a receipt or bill. Apple may ask for it during an official Activation Lock removal process.
• A device in Lost Mode has likely been reported stolen and cannot be legally unlocked.
• Do not share your Apple credentials. Losing access can trigger Activation Lock on your own device.

Part 4. FAQ on Activation Lock

How to remove Activation Lock without previous owner without a computer?

You can try the DNS bypass method via Wi-Fi settings. However, it only works on older iOS versions and offers limited access.

How to remove Activation Lock without Apple ID?

Use a reliable Activation Lock removal tool like Tenorshare 4MeKey or UltFone iPhone Unlocker to bypass the lock without the Apple ID.

How to remove Activation Lock before selling my iPhone?

Sign out of your Apple account by going to Settings > [Your Name] > Sign Out, entering your Apple ID password and deleting all content to disable Activation Lock.

Does factory reset remove Activation Lock?

No, a factory reset does not remove Activation Lock. The Apple ID and password must still be entered after the reset.

Mot.final

Activation Lock helps keep Apple devices secure, but it can be a challenge if you're using a used iPhone or iPad. This guide has explainedhow to remove Activation Lock without the previous ownerusing various methods, from setting up DNS to using iCloud.

One of the easiest and most reliable methods,UltFone iPhone Unlock, allows you to bypass the lock without needing the Apple ID. It's a simple way to access your device if you can't reach the person you bought it from.