How to Know if an iPhone Is iCloud Locked (And What That Means)
- Redacción
- May 9
- 2 min read
Buying a second-hand iPhone can be a great way to save money—if you know what to look for. One of the most important things to check before making a purchase is whether the device is iCloud locked.
🔒What Is iCloud Activation Lock?
Activation Lock is a security feature that’s automatically enabled when “Find My iPhone” is turned on. It links the iPhone to a specific iCloud account, making it useless to anyone without that account’s credentials.
This protects the phone if it’s lost or stolen, but it also means that a buyer who doesn’t check for iCloud lock might end up with a device they can’t use.
🧠How to Check if an iPhone Is iCloud Locked
Before purchasing a used iPhone, follow these steps:
Turn it on: If it asks for an iCloud email and password, it’s locked.
Try to set it up: If you can go through the setup process without entering someone else’s info, it’s safe.
Check the Settings: If already activated, go to Settings > General > About and look for “Find My iPhone”.
Ask the seller to disable Find My iPhone: Do it in person to confirm they have access.
⚠️What If You Buy an iCloud-Locked iPhone?
It won’t work. Even if the phone is in perfect condition, it will constantly ask for the original iCloud credentials. You won’t be able to use it for calls, apps, or anything else—it’s essentially a brick.
Trying to bypass the lock is not only unethical but also illegal in many places.
✅What to Do If You Already Bought One
Contact the seller and ask them to remove the phone from their iCloud account.
If they still have access, they can go to iCloud.com, use “Find iPhone,” and remove the device.
If you can’t reach the original owner, unfortunately, the device can’t be used.
📌Tips for Buying Used iPhones
Ask for a purchase receipt or proof of ownership.
Avoid shady marketplaces.
Check the IMEI on Apple’s official checker before paying.
Buy from reputable sellers with guarantees.
At iProX, we help you verify the device’s condition and iCloud status before you commit to buying. Better safe than sorry.