Apple Activation Lock feature
Apple Activation Lock feature
The device lock is designed to stop stolen devices from being used, making them unusable on the second-hand market. Before purchasing a used phone, verify that the original owner has erased the device and removed the lock. If the phone is locked, it’s likely stolen. Reach out to the retailer you bought from to inquire about return policies. On the goodwill website, many iPhones are marked as locked or available only for parts. Check the original listing for details on whether it’s described as locked or part-only. How much did you pay for it?
The issue isn't with the padlock but with theft prevention. Most agree anti-theft features are beneficial. Many sell used phones and tablets without this concern. The real problem arises when devices are stolen. Would you have paid the full price? Could you share the original product listing?
You need strong tech skills to access icloud.com, recall your credentials, and erase the device. That’s not something many people are comfortable with. I’ve also faced a situation where someone passed away and there was no way to unlock the account because they were the sole person with access. While it’s intended for security, when it interferes with everyday use it’s worth questioning whether it’s still useful. The product was labeled as secure, but after hours of attempts, I reached out to Apple repeatedly. They confirmed they needed to resolve this issue! It’s frustrating.
Apple has implemented restrictions so the device can’t be reused. Be aware of a poor user experience when considering purchasing another Apple product later. If people ceased buying Apple due to its less-than-good practices, they’d likely be forced to adopt better usability.