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Whether you’ve forgotten your Apple ID password, bought a used iPhone that’s still linked to a previous owner’s Apple ID, or just want to erase all content and settings for some other reason, you’ll find the instructions you need in this guide to erase an iPhone without Apple ID Password. The tricks support the latest iPhone 14 as well as iPhone 13, iPhone 12, iPhone 11 and iPhone X.
Although Apple strongly links your device to an Apple ID for security and privacy reasons, there are legal and legitimate ways to erase a locked iPhone without an Apple ID password. In the following sections, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions, covering methods involving iTunes, Recovery Mode, and third-party software.
What is Apple ID Password Used for?
Apple ID password is a critical element that secures your Apple account and all the services that come with it. Apple ID and its password play a central role in safeguarding your personal information and providing you access to various Apple services. Here’s what your Apple ID password is used for:
iCloud Access: Your Apple ID password provides access to iCloud, where you can store files, photos, and backup your device.
iTunes & App Store Purchases: Whether you want to buy an app, a song, or an ebook, your Apple ID password is required to validate the purchase. The same holds true for in-app purchases.
Find My iPhone: This feature helps you locate your lost device. But to use it, you’ll need to input the Apple ID password.
Erase iPhone: Apple ID password is needed before erasing the iPhone. This is mandotary to make sure the action is under the permission of device owner.
Apple ID password ensures that you’re the only one who can access your account and any personal information associated with it. Therefore, it’s important to keep it safe and secure.
How to Find Apple ID Password without iPhone
If you’ve forgotten your Apple ID password and you don’t have an iPhone, you can still recover your password using a web browser on a computer. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Visit the Apple ID account page: https://appleid.apple.com
Step 2:Click ‘Forgot Apple ID or password’.
Step 3: Enter your Apple ID.
Step 4: Choose the option to reset your password and select ‘Continue’.
The steps after this depend on the security settings of your account. You might need to answer security questions, get an email to the primary or rescue email address you provided when you set up your Apple ID, or get instructions on how to unlock your account with two-factor authentication or two-step verification.
Keep in mind that the email resetting process might take some time if Apple needs to ensure your identity. Always check your spam, junk, and any other folders where the email might have been delivered.
Method 1: How to Erase iPhone without Apple ID Password in Recovery Mode
If you need to erase an iPhone without an Apple ID password, using recovery mode is an option. This process can be useful if you’ve forgotten the password or bought a second-hand iPhone that’s still linked to the previous owner’s Apple ID. It’s important to remember that Wiping an iPhone will delete all data and return the device to its factory settings. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to erase an iPhone using recovery mode:
Step 1: You can use a Mac or a Windows PC. Make sure you have the latest version of iTunes if you’re using a PC. If you’re using a Mac running macOS Catalina 10.15 or later, you’ll use Finder instead of iTunes.
Step 2: Put the iPhone into recovery mode. The method varies depending on your iPhone model:
For iPhone 8 or later: Press and quickly release the volume up button, press and quickly release the volume down button, then press and hold the side button until you see the recovery mode screen.
For iPhone 7 and 7 Plus: Press and hold the side (or top) button and volume down button together until you see the recovery mode screen.
Step 3: Once your device is in recovery mode, a window will pop up in iTunes or Finder (depending on your computer). Select ‘Restore’. This will erase your device and install the latest iOS software.
Step 4: After the process finishes, you can set up your device as new.
Remember, the main disadvantage of this method is that it will require you to update to the latest iOS version. Moreover, if Find My iPhone is enabled, you will still need the Apple ID and password to reactivate the device after the restore. If you don’t have these, you’ll need to contact Apple Support for help, providing proof of purchase and ownership.
Method 2: How to Erase iPhone without Apple ID Password via Aiseesoft iPhone Unlocker
Aiseesoft iPhone Unlocker is one of the best software to help you safely erase iPhone without needing the Apple ID password. It’s useful if you’ve forgotten your Apple ID password or have bought a second-hand iPhone that’s still tied to the previous owner’s Apple ID. Please note that using this tool will erase all data on your iPhone and return it to its factory settings.
Here are the steps to use Aiseesoft iPhone Unlocker:
Step 1: Download Aiseesoft iPhone Unlocker from our website. Install it on your Windows PC or Mac.
Step 2: Connect the iPhone to the computer via USB cable.
Step 3: Launch Aiseesoft iPhone Unlocker. On the main interface, select the "Remove Apple ID" mode.
Step 4: Click on the "Start" button to start removing the Apple ID and iCloud account associated with your iPhone. If Find My iPhone is disabled, the program will start unlocking directly.
Step 5: After the removal process, the Apple ID and iCloud account will be removed from your iPhone. You can now set up your iPhone with a new Apple ID or use it without an Apple ID.
Method 3: How to Erase iPhone without Apple ID Password via iMyFone Fixppo
iMyFone Fixppo is a professional iOS repair tool that can also help you erase an iPhone without an Apple ID password. It’s designed to fix various iOS system problems. Please remember that using this software will erase all the data on your iPhone, and you’ll need to set it up as a new device.
Here are the steps to use iMyFone Fixppo to erase your iPhone:
Step 1: Visit the Androidphonesoft website and download the Fixppo software.
Step 2: Open iMyFone Fixppo from the computer and plug into the iPhone.
Step 3: On the home interface, you’ll see three modes. Select the "Advanced Mode". This mode can fix more serious issues but will erase all data on your iPhone.
Step 4: The software will guide you to put your iPhone into DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode, which will allow it to be fully recognized for the repair process.
Step 5: Once your device is in DFU mode, iMyFone Fixppo will detect your iPhone model and provide all the available firmware. Choose a version (usually the latest one is recommended) and click "Download".
Step 6: After downloading the firmware, click on the "Start" button. The software will start repairing your iPhone. In the process, it will erase your iPhone.
Step 7 : After the process is complete, the phone will exit recovery mode and you can set up your iPhone as new.
Method 4: How to Erase iPhone without Apple ID Password by Contacting Apple Support
If you are trying to erase an iPhone without an Apple ID password and the other methods outlined above are not applicable or successful, your best option may be to contact Apple Support directly. Apple’s representatives can guide you through potential solutions, but they will not unlock a device for you. Here are the steps to do so:
Step 1: You can visit the Apple Support website, get assistance via live chat, or call the Apple support line.
Step 2: The support representative will need information to verify that you’re the rightful owner of the iPhone. This might include your device’s serial number, the name of the Apple ID you’re trying to remove (if you know it), and other relevant details, such as purchase information.
Step 3: Apple Support may suggest you to reset your password if you’ve simply forgotten it. They can also guide you through the process of setting up two-factor authentication to recover your account if it’s set up.
Step 4: If you can’t recover your Apple ID through traditional methods, Apple may request documentation like a purchase receipt to prove that you are the rightful owner. If you can provide this, Apple can remove the Activation Lock (linked to your Apple ID) on your behalf.
Please remember that even Apple can’t remove an Activation Lock without proof of purchase or other necessary information. The process is designed this way to prevent unauthorized access and protect users’ privacy. Always ensure you keep your account details secure and accessible, and consider setting up two-factor authentication to prevent future issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is your Apple ID password stored anywhere?
No, Apple does not store your Apple ID password. It’s encrypted and kept secure, which means it’s not visible to Apple or stored in a retrievable format.
Can I reset Apple ID password with email?
Yes, you can reset your Apple ID password with your email. When you click ‘Forgot Apple ID or password’ on the Apple ID account page, one option is to receive an email to reset your password.
How to factory reset iPhone without Apple ID password or computer?
Without the Apple ID password or a computer, it’s tough to factory reset an iPhone due to Apple’s security measures. If you forgot the Apple ID password, it’s best to reset it via Apple’s recovery options. If you can’t access a computer, you may need to borrow one or visit an Apple Store for assistance.
Can you delete everything on iPhone without password?
No, you can’t delete everything on iPhone without the password due to Apple’s security features. The passcode or Apple ID password is required to erase and reset an iPhone. If you’ve forgotten the password, you’ll need to go through Apple’s password recovery process.
How do I wipe my iPhone if it’s locked?
If your iPhone is locked and you cannot remember the passcode, you can erase it using Recovery Mode or a third-party software. This will delete all your data and remove the passcode. But if your iPhone has an activation lock (Apple ID password), you’ll need that to set up the iPhone after erasing it. If you don’t have it, you’ll need to reset your Apple ID password.
The Bottom Line
It seems daunting to erase an iPhone without an Apple ID password, but several methods are available, each suited to different circumstances. Whether it’s by entering Recovery Mode, using third-party software such as Aiseesoft iPhone Unlocker or iMyFone Fixppo, or contacting Apple Support directly, you can manage to erase the device. However, it’s important to remember that these methods will erase all data on your iPhone, returning it to its factory settings.
Moreover, Apple’s security measures such as Activation Lock may still require an Apple ID password to set up the device after erasing it. If you’ve forgotten Apple ID password, Apple offers various recovery options, including resetting it via email or answering security questions.
Lastly, to prevent these issues in the future, keep your Apple ID password secure and accessible, and consider setting up two-factor authentication for added security. Always make sure to sign out of your Apple ID before selling or giving away your device to prevent others from having to erase it without the password.