How to Remove Activation Lock On the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max Without Previous Owner?

Refurbished iPhones or iPads have been a viable option for more and more people, especially with the major cell phone manufacturer, Apple, offering official purchase channels. However, there are many people who buy used phones through non-acquaintances who trade in their own Apple devices. So, the question arises: How to remove the Find My iPhone activation lock without a previous owner? It has become the focus of people’s attention.

The reason can vary, but the recovery process can be exasperating. Fortunately, there are several right approaches and alternatives that can help with the situation. This article will introduce to you some simple and effective tricks to remove the activation lock, even if you lose help from previous owners.

Here is a video for you to learn how to remove Activation Lock on iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch:

Why Apple Devices Get locked by Activation Lock? [A Simple Overview]

In case some users don’t know Activation Lock, we are giving a simple introduction to it. According to Apple, “Activation Lock is a feature that’s designed to prevent anyone else from using your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPad, iPod touch, or Apple Watch if it’s ever lost or stolen. Activation Lock is enabled automatically when you turn on Find My iPhone. Even if you erase your device remotely, the Activation Lock can continue to deter anyone from reactivating your device without your permission. All you need to do is keep Find My iPhone turned on and remember your Apple ID and password.”

Admittedly, it has a good side to follow, but it does have drawbacks to specific people. Here are the pros and cons of Activation lock.

Pros

• Locate and play a sound by Find My iPhone on missing Apple devices, like iPhone, iPad, Mac, etc
• Protect data if a device is stolen

Cons

• Make the first using process more troublesome if you cannot acquire the iCloud login information from the previous owner, after buying a second hand iPhone

To solve this small problem, in this post, we provide you with four effective solutions to help you remove Activation Lock without a previous owner.

Method 1: Remove Activation Lock Without Previous Owner Using Dr.Fone [iOS 12.0 and up]

Without the credential, or iCloud login information from the previous owner, Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) could do a big favor. It applies to both MacBook and Windows, and it is a professional bypass tool for an iCloud activation lock. The following steps will help you to remove the iCloud activation lock.

Dr.Fone will access your iOS devices with a couple of clicks. Follow the video instructions below to remove find my iPhone/ iPad activation lock without a previous owner:

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock

Remove Remove Activation Lock without Password in Minutes

• Remove Apple ID/iCloud Account efficiently.
• Save your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max quickly from the disabled state.
• Free your sim out of any carrier worldwide.
• Bypass iCloud activation lock and enjoy all iCloud services.
• Works for all models of iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.

4,008,670 people have downloaded it

Step-by-step guide for Windows users

• Step 1. Launch and install Dr.Fone on your PC, and select Screen Unlock from its home page.
• Step 2. Select “_iOS” mode, and click “iCloud Activation Lock Removal” to bypass the iCloud Activation Lock. Then, tap “Start”_.

• Step 3. If your iOS device is running iOS/iPadOS 15.0 to 16.3, you can follow this process. However, for iOS/iPadOS 12.0 to 14.8.1, you must first jailbreak your device by following the Jailbreak Guide .

• Step 4. Then, please carefully read the agreement, confirm and tick it before start removing the iCloud activation lock.

• Step 5. Next, follow the on-screen instructions to put your iOS device to enter DFU mode twice. And make sure your USB connection is stable, and you’ve unlocked the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max device screen.  When it is done, select Got It! button to continue.

• Step 6. Then, Dr.Fone Screen Unlock will start the unlocking process, just take some minutes to its completion. After a while, it will show the following interface as below when it gets finished.

Method 2: Remove Activation Lock Without Previous Owner by Apple Official Support

This method could be very useful, but not that easy because you need to get proof of the purchase from the previous owner first. Once you get the required documents, everything goes simple. Go and contact Apple Support , Apple staff will be able to support you. They will verify the original owner of the phone and then help you unlock the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max device. In addition to proof of purchase, they may ask for other documents as well as your identity cards. They will remove the Activation Lock from your device if your purchase documents are legit.

There are two ways to ask for Apple support:

• Offline method: Visit the Apple Store along with the purchase proof.
• Online method: Call Apple Support or visit its official website for remote assistance in removing the Activation Lock.

Their representatives will provide you with the necessary support and assistance during the process.

Method 3: Remove Activation Lock Without Previous Owner via DNS

Activation locks are difficult to get through, but fortunately, few methods work. DNS method can also help you bypass the activation lock and access your device. The best part is, you don’t need the previous owner or proof of purchase.

DNS method is an effective technique to remove find my iPhone activation lock without the previous owner. It works for the operating system running in the older versions. It is a simple technique for a technical person, and it works for both iPhone and iPad. This method utilizes the Wi-Fi DNS settings of the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max device. Follow the steps:

• Step 1: Set up the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max as a new device.
• Step 2: Connect to a Wi-Fi network on the Wi-Fi settings page. And tap the “_i_” icon next to your network name.

• Step 3: On the next screen, tap on the Configure DNS option.

• Step 4: Choose the “_Manual_” option from the page as below.

• Step 5: Tap “**+** Add Server”, and try one of the following DNS values:

• USA: 104.154.51.7

• South America: 35.199.88.219

• Europe: 104.155.28.90

• Asia: 104.155.220.58

• Australia and Oceania: 35.189.47.23

• Other: 78.100.17.60

• Step 6: Your phone will be unlocked.

Pros

• This process can be manually done by devices’ Wi-Fi settings.
• It doesn’t need any external device or software.

Cons

• The process might be a little complicated for a non-technical person to operate.
• The method may not work for the latest versions of the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max or iPad.

Method 4: Remove Activation Lock Without Previous Owner via the iCloud Web

If you can not reach the previous owner, but you are still in touch with them, they can still unlock your phone remotely by following a set of instructions. This whole process can be performed remotely with the help of iCloud web. If your previous owner cooperates, they can help with the process.

The process will involve a few steps to remove your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max from their account remotely. After this process, you can set your device as a new phone. The activation lock will be permanently gone from your phone.

Here are the step-by-step instructions on removing my iPhone/iPad activation lock without the previous owner using the iCloud web. You can share these steps with the previous owner :

• Open iCloud website in a browser.
• Sign in to the existing iCloud account in use with the locked iPhone.
• Once you are logged in, click on the option that says Find iPhone.

Now you can remotely perform actions on your phone. Further :

• Click on the drop-down named All Devices and choose your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max.
• Click on Erase iPhone.

Final Words

By now, you are familiar that there are many ways to bypass activation lock. So, If you face a situation with the activation lock, you will have a couple of options to get through the situation. Just decide the correct method and approach according to your circumstances and availability of resources. If you are a seller, you should disable the activation lock before selling your phone. Erasing the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max device back to factory settings will not put the buyer in any trouble.

To Disable Activation Lock

• Go to settings > Tap your name at the top of the list > Tap iCloud > Tap Find My iPhone > Toggle the “Find My iPhone” > Type your Apple ID password.

To Reset The Device

• Go to settings > General > Reset > Click “erase all settings” >Give confirmation > Wait until the process is complete.

We hope this post will help you figure out the right way to remove the Find My iPhone/ iPad Activation Lock without a previous owner. If you have any questions, please leave us in the comment section below.

What You Want To Know About Two-Factor Authentication for iCloud On your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max

Hackers have stolen millions of iCloud credentials in the past and demanded Apple pay for a ransom. This is starting to become a thing of the past as Apple implemented two-factor authentication to secure your Apple ID.

However, it’s not always perfect, as sometimes you need to get past two-factor authentication on your iCloud for various reasons. That’s why this article will teach you how to set it up and bypass two-factor authentication on iCloud yourself if you need to. Read further to learn more.

Part 1: What Is Two-Factor Authentication for iCloud?

Not to be confused with Apple’s two-step authentication, the new and more secure two-factor authentication on iCloud introduces push notifications on your iOS device to keep your data safe. With Apple’s two unique ways to prove your identity, hackers will find it harder to access your personal and financial data.

Switching to two-factor authentication rather than two-step is becoming more common nowadays as security measures are more advanced. You can always switch your security measure at any point, but remember that two-factor authentication is now an essential way to keep your data safe.

Part 2: What Are the Benefits of Two-Factor Authentication?

Setting up two-factor authentication is a secure way to protect your device against unauthorized access. Adding another layer to your username and password highly reduces the chances of hackers obtaining your account.

Here are some of the benefits of activating two-factor authentication on your device.

• Improved security - A second form of identification aside from your password reduces the chance for someone to gain access to your information.
• Interconnectivity to mobile engagement - Two-factor authentication from businesses provides users with a stronger login system to ensure their information is safe in the digital world.
• Reduces Fraud - Due to the rise of identity theft in recent years, businesses risk losing trust, brand equity, and credibility. A secure authentication system adds a layer of protection to keep you secure.

Part 3: How To Set up Two-factor Authentication for iCloud?

If you haven’t set up two-factor authentication yet on your iCloud, here are the steps to activate it right now.

Step 1: On your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max/iPad, go to Settings and tap your Apple ID profile at the top.

Step 2: Tap Password & Security and turn On Two-Factor Authentication.

Step 3: Enter a phone number to receive the two-factor code via an SMS or a phone call.

Step 4: Enter the 6-digit verification code received on your device and wait for the process the finish.

Note

You can turn off two-factor authentication within two weeks of enrollment. After that, it’s permanent.

Part 4: How To Turn Off Two-Factor Authentication on Your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max?

As previously stated, once two-factor authentication is active on iCloud, you only have a two-week window to deactivate it again.

To get past two-factor authentication on iCloud, Go to Settings > your name > Password & Security. Tap Two-Factor Authentication and turn it Off again.

Meanwhile, here are the steps to learn how to bypass 2-step verification on iCloud on the web.

Step 1: Go to the Apple ID sign-in page and log in with your Apple ID.

Step 2: Click Sign-In and Security > Account Security.

Step 3: Click Turn Off Two-Step Verification. Answer a security question you’ve set up previously to finish the process.

Part 5: Is It Possible to Bypass Two-Factor Authentication for iCloud?

If you’re wondering how to bypass two-factor authentication on iCloud, the answer is no, you can’t. However, if you don’t have access to your trusted device, you can have a code sent to your trusted phone number via an SMS or an automated phone call to prove to Apple that you own the iCloud account.

If this is impossible, you should request account recovery to regain access to your account.

The easiest way to prevent this issue is by adding another phone number to your Apple ID so you’ll always have a backup. Here’s how.

Step 1: On your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max, go to Settings and tap on your Apple ID > Password & Security.

Step 2: Tap Edit and choose to Add a Trusted Phone Number. You’ll have to enter your device’s passcode to continue.

Step 3: Enter your new phone number. Select a way to receive a verification code via sms or phone call and tap Send.

Step 4: Enter the verification code and wait for the process to finish.

Bonus Tips: Forgot Your iCloud Password? Here’s What To Do

Using special programs like Dr.Fone can help you recover your iOS device if you forget your iCloud password.

Dr.Fone’s key features are:

• Removes all types of iPhone locks such as Apple ID password, Face ID, Touch ID, and more.
• Bypass iCloud activation lock.
• Unlock your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max without carrier restrictions.
• Remove MDM profile / bypass MDM lock without data loss.

Here’s how to use Dr.Fone if you forget your iCloud password.

Step 1: Download and install Dr.Fone .

Step 2: Click Screen Unlock on the main program window. On the next screen, click Bypass Activate Lock.

Step 3: Click Start to initiate the process of unlocking your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max without an iCloud password.

Note

Your iPhone will need to be jailbroken before bypassing it using Dr.Fone.

After step 3, there are two possible outcomes for GSM and CDMA iPhone devices.

• If you own a GSM device, the unlocking will do no harm to your iOS device, and you can enjoy your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max as usual.
• If the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max is CDMA, you won’t be able to use the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max device for phone calls, cellular data, and iCloud of your new Apple ID.

Conclusion

Turning on your iCloud’s two-factor authentication is necessary for today’s high-tech society. It ensures your information is always secure and minimizes the risk of getting hacked or having your account stolen. Once two-factor is active on your Apple ID, Apple provides you with a two-week window to deactivate it if you change your mind.

Meanwhile, if you forgot your iCloud and have a hard time recovering your account, you can try using dedicated programs like Dr.Fone to unlock your iOS device in a few steps.

Easy Tutorial for Activating iCloud on Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max: Safe and Legal

Any iOS device needs iCloud to function properly. In addition to storing and backing up your contacts, photos, passcodes, and documents, iCloud is an essential part of the iOS operating system.

Activation locks prevent users from accessing iCloud. Users cannot back up their files to iCloud if the software has an activation lock. Activation locks protect your device if it is lost or stolen.

The former owner often sells their device with an activation lock enabled, which can cause difficulties for the current owner/buyer. The device may appear to be stolen by the current owner.

Fortunately, we have the best solutions for you-the five best tools for iOS 17 iCloud bypass. You can unlock the activation lock by following these simple steps.

Let’s get started!

Choosing the right tool for iOS 17 bypasses is challenging. Looking for a safe, legal, and effective way to bypass the iCloud Activation lock is exhausting. To make understanding easier, we have added pictorial tutorials and a step-by-step guide.

Check out these iOS 17 iCloud bypass tools:

1. Check M8

The best tool for bypassing the iCloud lock screen on iOS 17 is Check M8, software designed to unlock the iCloud lock screen on iOS 17.

• Step 1: Visit Check M8 website.

• Step 2: Select your computer model to find the ‘Download‘ button.
• Step 3: Run the software on your computer.
• Step 4: Connect your iOS device to your computer.
• Step 5: Tap on ‘Start Bypass‘ to start the process.

• Step 6: Wait for the bypass to complete, and you’re done!

The iCloud activation lock can be unlocked in six easy steps, right after which you should update your phone.

2. Frpfile All-In-One Tool

Bypassing iOS 17 is easy with Frpfile, and it has several other features as well. There are so many things you can accomplish with just one tool. For quick iOS 17 iCloud bypass, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Visit iFrpfile All-In-One Tool and click ‘Download‘ to install the software.
• Step 2: Run the software on your computer. Connect your device to your computer.
• Step 3: Click ‘Process‘ to start the bypass.

This free tool can simplify your work 10x, meaning you can use your phone/device to its fullest.

3. IMEI Doctor

The best alternative for bypassing iCloud in iOS 17 is IMEI Doctor. A top-notch tech team does unlock your phone/device, so you can enjoy using it. Unlocking your phone/device is worth $19.

Follow these simple steps for iOS 17 bypass:

• Step 1: Go to the IMEI Doctor website.

• Step 2: Select your region.
• Step 3: Type in your iCloud IMEI number.
• Step 4: Select your device and model type from the drop-down button.
• Step 5: Tap “Remove Activation Lock“.

• Step 6: Process the fee for unlocking the activation lock.

4. IMEI Unlock Sim

There is some similarity between IMEI Doctor and IMEI Unlock Sim, but IMEI Unlock Sim is much better and more convenient. There is a guarantee that you will receive the results within 24 hours. Furthermore, all devices and models are compatible with the system.

Follow these steps to iOS 17 iCloud bypass:

• Step 1: Visit the IMEI Unlock Sim site.

• Step 2: Select your device by clicking the drop-down button. Type the IMEI code of your device.

• Step 3: Click on “Unlock Now“, and process the payment.

5. Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

It is possible to bypass the iCloud activation lock with a tool called Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) . For some tools, it requires jailbreak before removing the activation lock. Lucky enough, Wondershare Dr.Fone launched an activation bypass solution that doesn’t require jailbreak (running on IOS 12.0-IOS 16.6). With the help of this powerful tool, you will be able to bypass iCloud on iOS 17 Without Jailbreak.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Remove Activation Lock on Apple iPhone 12 Pro Maxs at Ease

• Unlock Face ID, Touch ID, Apple ID without password.
• Bypass the iCloud activation lock without hassle.
• Remove iPhone carrier restrictions for unlimited usage.
• No tech knowledge required, Simple, click-through, process.

3,981,454 people have downloaded it

Here’s how to use Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock to bypass the iOS 17 activation lock without jailbreak:

• Step 1: Log in Wondershare Dr.Fone and click Toolbox > Screen Unlock > iOS.
• Step 2: Make the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max device connected to computer and choose “iCloud Activation Lock Removal”.

• Step 3: Tab ‘Unlock Now‘ button on the next window. When a prompt show up, read the details carefully and checkmark “I have read and agree the agreement”. Click “**Got it!**” button as well.

• Step 4: Put your iOS Device in DFU Mode for the first time: wait the program to send a command to the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max device, and then it will restart.

• Step 5: Put the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max device in DFU mode for the second time. The program will activate the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max device when it finishes.
• Step 6: Once the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max device has been processed under the DFU Mode, the computer’s screen will start displaying the removal of the iCloud Activation Lock. When it’s done, click ‘Done‘.

Please note that after the removal of the Activation Lock from the iPhone, it won’t be able to make or receive any calls or text messages through cellular networks.

Part 2: FAQs

1. Why do we need to bypass the iCloud activation lock?

iCloud is software that secures your backups, photos, and passcodes, allows access to Apple’s credentials, and much more. iCloud activation lock is one of the features of ‘Find Phone’ that secures your device’s personal information from falling into the wrong hands.

However, it can be trouble if you buy a second-hand iOS device. It can be difficult to access iCloud if the previous one has enabled activation lock. That’s why you need to bypass iOS 17, so you can access all the applications and secure all backups.

2. Is it legal to bypass the iCloud activation lock?

Bypassing the iCloud activation lock with or without the previous owner is legal. There are no illegal ways to unlock it. The steps and tools are all legal and safe to bypass the iOS 17 iCloud activation lock. Without bypassing the activation lock, you won’t be able to use your iOS device freely or at all.

3. What will happen after a successful bypass?

The data you previously had on your iOS device will be permanently erased as soon as iOS 17 has been bypassed. Additionally, the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max device will be set up as a new one. After finishing the bypass, you can now enter all your details and start using the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max device. Furthermore, you can back up all your data easily as the previous one has been deleted.

Conclusion

There is nothing more frustrating than an iCloud activation lock. You cannot access your iOS devices without iCloud. Since there are 5 incredible tools to bypass iOS 17, this issue has been resolved.

You can easily unlock anything with one of the best tools available. Lock-screen removal is made easy with Wondershare Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) . You can conveniently bypass the lock screen without any difficulty. The tool works smoothly on iOS devices, which is the most important feature.