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

Part 1. Why Are Apple Devices Locked by Activation Lock?

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

• The device was lost or stolen and locked for security.
• The previous owner didn’t sign out of iCloud.
• The phone was reset, but Find My iPhone stayed active.
• You bought a used device, and it’s still connected to the old owner’s account.

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

Part 2. Six Ways to Remove Activation Lock Without Previous Owner

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

Solution 1: Remove Activation Lock Without Previous Owner via Pro UnlockTool [Safe & Simple]

One of the most trusted ways to remove Activation Lock without the previous owner is by using a tool called UltFone iPhone Unlock . It works well on both iPhones and iPads, even if you don’t know the Apple ID or password.

This software helps you unlock your device with just a few clicks. It supports many iOS versions from iOS 12 to iOS 26 and works for many lock types, including Activation Lock, Screen Time, MDM, and more.

Key Features of UltFone iPhone Unlock

• Supports removing 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 passcodes, Apple ID, Screen Time, and MDM.
• Allows you to log in with a new Apple ID after unlocking.
• Bypasses Screen Time without deleting your data.
• Offers a safe and fast jailbreak process as part of the unlocking.

Steps to Remove Activation Lock Without Previous Owner with UltFone iPhone Unlock

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

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

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

• Step 4UltFone will automatically begin the jailbreak process. Just wait a few minutes.

• Step 5Once finished, the Activation Lock will be removed. Now you can set up your device with your own Apple ID.

Solution 2: Remove Activation Lock Without Previous Owner via DNS Bypass [Low Success Rate]

It’s one of the older, 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 every device. Best for older iOS versions (iOS 8 to iOS 17), and even in that case, the success rate is low.

Still, if you want a free option to try before using a paid tool, here’s how to remove Activation Lock without the previous owner for free.

Quick DNS Bypass Method

• Press the Home button and go to Settings > Wi-Fi.
• Tap the small “i” icon next to the Wi-Fi network you’re 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
  
• Tap Back, then hit Activation Help.

If it works, you’ll see a message saying “You have successfully connected to my Server.”

Try Full Bypass for More Access

• Tap Menu > Applications > Crash. This will restart your iPhone.
• After the restart, select your language and country, then tap the Home button and go back to Wi-Fi settings.
• Tap the “i” icon next to your Wi-Fi again, and scroll down to HTTP PROXY.

• In the Server field, type about 30 different emojis. Then, in the Port field, type 15–30 random letters or numbers.
• Now swipe the unlock screen and switch languages a few times. After repeating this for a bit, your iPhone’s home screen may appear.

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

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

Steps to Bypass Find My iPhone

• Ask the previous owner to open a browser and go to iCloud.com. Have them log in using the same Apple ID that was used on your locked iPhone or iPad.
• After logging in, they should click on “Find iPhone” from the menu. This lets them manage devices linked to the Apple ID.
• At the top of the screen, they’ll see an option that says “All Devices”. From the list, they need to pick the iPhone or iPad they sold or gave to you.
• Once selected, they need to click “Erase iPhone” (or iPad), and after that, tap on “Remove from Account.”

Solution 4: Remove Activation Lock Without Previous Owner via IMEI Number [Limited & Risky Option]

You might come across websites saying that you can unlock your iPhone just by using the IMEI number. While that might sound easy, it’s not as simple or as reliable as they make it seem. Apple doesn’t support unlocking Activation Lock through IMEI unless you’re the original owner and can show proof of purchase. Most sites that offer IMEI unlocking are third-party services, and many either don’t work or end up charging you even after claiming it’s free.

Still curious? Here’s what the process usually looks like:

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

Solution 5: Remove Activation Lock Without Previous Owner via IPSW [Computer Needed]

Using a custom IPSW file is one of the more technical ways to remove the 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 comes with a high risk of failure. A small mistake can even “brick” your device, making it unusable. So, if you’re not very tech-savvy or don’t want to take risks, this might 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 and custom folders. Now, copy files from the custom folder and replace the matching ones in the original folder.
• Once replaced, select all the files in the original folder. Right-click > “Add to Archive” > select ZIP format and click OK.
• Rename the .zip file back 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 Previous Owner via Contacting Apple Support [Tough Process]

Apple Support can help you remove the Activation Lock, but only under certain conditions. You’ll need to show proof that you’re the rightful owner, like the original purchase receipt. In the event that the device belonged to a deceased person, a death certificate may also be required.

Go to Apple's support site, give the details of your device (the IMEI and others), and attach all the necessary documents for submission. After they confirm it, Apple may remove the lock from your device.

Part 3. How to Avoid Getting Stuck on the Activation Lock Screen

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

• Use Apple’s Activation Lock Status Tool or ask the seller to erase 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’re buying a second-hand device, request a receipt or invoice. Apple may ask for it during an official Activation Lock removal process.
• A device in Lost Mode is most likely reported stolen and cannot be unlocked legally.
• Don’t share your Apple credentials. Losing access can trigger Activation Lock on your own device.

Part 4. FAQ about Activation Lock

How to remove Activation Lock without previous owner without computer?

You can try the DNS bypass method through 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 trusted 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 Your iPhone?

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

Does Factory Reset Remove Activation Lock?

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

Final Word

Activation Lock helps keep Apple devices secure, but it can be a challenge if you're using a second-hand iPhone or iPad. This guide explained how to remove Activation Lock without the previous owner using different ways, from DNS settings to iCloud help.

One of the easiest and most reliable methods,UltFone iPhone Unlock , lets you bypass the lock without the need for the Apple ID. This is a simple way to access your device if you can't reach the party from whom you purchased it.