The “iPhone Locked to Owner” message, officially known as iCloud Activation Lock, is a potent security feature that automatically activates when the “Find My” feature is enabled on any Apple device.
Its primary purpose is to act as a deterrent against theft: if your iPhone is lost or stolen, it is rendered useless to anyone who doesn’t possess the original Apple ID and password, even after a factory reset.
While this is excellent security, it becomes a major obstacle for legitimate buyers of second-hand iPhones or for users who forgot their own Apple ID credentials after a long period of inactivity. When you are confronted with this screen, you need a way to bypass the iCloud Activation Lock to regain full control and use of the device. This comprehensive guide details the most effective methods, focusing on solutions that work even without the previous owner’s password.
Part 1. How to Bypass iPhone Locked to Owner Without Previous Owner
When you don’t have access to the previous owner or their Apple ID credentials, your options narrow down to three main methods, with specialized software offering the highest chance of success.
Method 1. Using iCloud Bypass Tool
For a reliable and user-friendly solution that works without relying on the previous owner, a dedicated tool like iMobie AnyUnlock iPhone password remover is the most effective approach. Its “Bypass iCloud Activation Lock” feature is engineered to bypass the iCloud lock screen without contact the previous owner..
AnyUnlock Features
- Easy and Straightforward: Designed with a simple interface for non-technical users, ensuring a high success rate through a guided, step-by-step process.
- No Credentials Needed: Bypass iCloud activation lock without requiring the original Apple ID and password.
- Broad Compatibility: Supports iOS 12 and above, and works on a wide range of iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch models.
- Complete Toolkit: AnyUnlock is a complete iOS solution that can also bypass the screen lock, MDM lock, Apple ID, SIM lock, and more.
Step-by-Step Operation with AnyUnlock “Bypass iCloud Activation Lock”
1 – Download & Launch: Install AnyUnlock on your PC/Mac and open it. Choose “Bypass iCloud Activation Lock”.
2 – Connect Device: Plug your locked iPhone into the computer via USB. Click “Start Now”.
3 – Jailbreak: Click “Start Jailbreak”. Follow on-screen instructions (usually entering DFU mode) to jailbreak the device.
4 – Bypass Lock: After jailbreak, click “Bypass Now”. Keep the iPhone connected until the process finishes.
5 – Device Unlocked: Activation Lock is removed; set up your iPhone as new.
Method 2. Using DNS Bypass (Partial Access)
The DNS (Domain Name System) Bypass method is a non-software technique that redirects the iPhone’s activation request to a third-party server instead of Apple’s official server. This can often grant you partial access to the device, typically allowing you to use some apps and media features. However, this method has become increasingly unreliable due to Apple’s security updates.
How to:
1 – Start Setup: On the iPhone’s “Activation Lock” screen, tap the Home button or swipe up, and choose the “Wi-Fi Settings” option.
2 – Modify DNS: Tap the little “i” icon next to your Wi-Fi network.
3 – Configure DNS: Scroll down to “Configure DNS,” select “Manual,” and enter a custom DNS server address based on your region:
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- USA: 104.154.51.7
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- South America: 35.199.88.219
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- Europe: 104.155.28.90
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- Other regions have different codes.
4 – Connect and Bypass: Tap “Back” and then connect to the Wi-Fi network. Tap “Next Page” and then quickly tap “Back” to trick the system into loading the bypass screen, which may grant you temporary, limited access.
Method 3. Contact Apple Support
This is the only 100% official, guaranteed, and legal way to iPhone locked to owner bypass without any limitations. However, it requires you to prove ownership.
Requirements:
- Proof of Purchase: You must possess the original receipt, invoice, or electronic proof of purchase that clearly shows the device’s serial number or IMEI.
- Original Owner Status: You must be the original purchaser of the device. If it was a gift, you need a receipt showing the transaction.
- No Stolen Devices: Apple will verify that the device has not been reported as lost or stolen.
How to:
1 – Visit Apple Support: Go to the official Apple Support website and look for the Activation Lock removal request page.
2 – Submit Request: Fill out the form, providing your name, contact information, and the device’s serial number or IMEI.
3 – Upload Documentation: Upload the required proof of purchase documentation.
4 – Wait for Review: Apple’s team will review your request. If the documents are verified and the device is not flagged as stolen, they will remotely remove the Activation Lock. This process can take several days.
Conclusion
The “iPhone Locked to Owner” screen is a testament to the strong security measures built into the iOS ecosystem. While it successfully deters theft, it can be a major inconvenience for legitimate users.
For guaranteed, full, and unlimited access, contacting Apple Support with proof of purchase is the definitive answer. However, if that is not an option, AnyUnlock – iPhone Password Unlocker is a complete iOS unlocking toolkit that offers the most reliable alternative. It provides a simple, guided, and high-success-rate method to bypass the lock screen, even without the previous owner’s credentials.
Beyond Activation Lock, AnyUnlock can help iPhone/iPad/iPod touch users unlock forgotten screen passwords, bypass MDM restrictions, unlock Apple ID, remove SIM Lock, and more, making it an indispensable tool for managing your iOS device’s security status.