How to Reset a Locked or Blocked iPhone, Comprehensive Guide

As an iPhone user, you may encounter situations where your device becomes locked or blocked, rendering it inaccessible. This can be a frustrating experience, especially if you don’t know how to resolve the issue. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with unique and effective solutions to reset a locked or blocked iPhone. This article will cover at least 10 sections and multiple sub-sections to ensure a thorough understanding of the topic.

1. Introduction to iPhone Locking and Blocking Issues

1.1 Reasons for Locked or Blocked iPhones

iPhones can become locked or blocked for various reasons, including:

• Entering incorrect passcodes multiple times: After several failed attempts, the iPhone disables itself to protect user data.
• Activation lock: When Find My iPhone is enabled and the device is erased remotely, an activation lock is activated, preventing anyone from using the device without the owner’s Apple ID and password.
• Carrier lock: iPhones purchased from specific carriers may be locked to that carrier, preventing the use of other carrier services.
• iCloud lock: If an iPhone is linked to an iCloud account and the password is forgotten, the device may become locked.
• MDM (Mobile Device Management) lock: Organizations may enforce MDM restrictions on employees’ iPhones, locking the device if the user attempts unauthorized actions.

1.2 Importance of Resetting a Locked or Blocked iPhone

Resetting a locked or blocked iPhone is essential for the following reasons:

• To regain access to the device and its contents.
• To sell or give away the iPhone, ensuring all personal information is removed.
• To troubleshoot and resolve software-related issues.

2. Preparations Before Resetting an iPhone

2.1 Backup Your Data

Before resetting a locked or blocked iPhone, it is crucial to create a backup of your data to prevent any loss of information. You can use iCloud, iTunes, or third-party tools to create a backup.

2.2 Charge Your iPhone

Ensure your iPhone has sufficient battery life before starting the reset process to avoid interruptions.

2.3 Update iTunes (if using iTunes method)

If you plan to reset your iPhone using iTunes, ensure that you have the latest version of iTunes installed on your computer.

3. Methods to Reset a Locked or Blocked iPhone

3.1 Hard Reset

A hard reset is the simplest method to resolve minor issues, such as a frozen screen or unresponsive device. The process differs based on the iPhone model:

• For iPhone 8/X/XR/11/12/13: Press and release the volume up button, press and release the volume down button, and then hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.
• For iPhone 7/7 Plus: Press and hold the volume down and side buttons until the Apple logo appears.
• For iPhone 6 and earlier models: Press and hold the side button and Home button until the Apple logo appears.

3.2 iTunes Restore

You can use iTunes to restore a locked or blocked iPhone if the device has been synced with iTunes in the past. Follow these steps:

• Connect the iPhone to the computer using a USB cable.
• Open iTunes and select the iPhone icon.
• Click on “Restore iPhone” and confirm the action.

3.3 Professional Unlocking Tools

Several professional unlocking tools, such as iMyFone LockWiper and Tenorshare 4uKey, are available to reset a locked or blocked iPhone. These tools can remove various locks, such as passcodes, Touch ID, Face ID, iCloud, and MDM locks.

3.4 iCloud Erase

If Find My iPhone is enabled on the locked or blocked device, you can use iCloud to erase the iPhone remotely. This method requires you to log in to your iCloud account on another device or computer.

• Visit iCloud.com and sign in with your Apple ID and password.
• Click on “Find iPhone.”
• Select your locked or blocked iPhone from the list of devices.
• Click on “Erase iPhone” and confirm the action.

4. Resetting iPhones with Activation Lock

4.1 Contact the iPhone’s Owner

If you have purchased a second-hand iPhone with an activation lock, contact the original owner and request them to remove the device from their iCloud account.

4.2 Contact Apple Support

If you cannot reach the original owner or the device is yours but you have forgotten the Apple ID and password, contact Apple Support for assistance.

5. Resetting iPhones with Carrier Lock

5.1 Contact the Carrier

The most straightforward method to unlock a carrier-locked iPhone is to contact the carrier and request an unlock. The carrier may have specific requirements, such as completing a contract or paying off any remaining device balance.

5.2 Third-Party Unlocking Services

You can also use third-party unlocking services to remove the carrier lock. However, research the service provider carefully, as some may not be reliable or legal.

6. Resetting iPhones with iCloud Lock

6.1 DNS Bypass

A temporary solution to bypass the iCloud lock is by using a DNS server. This method does not unlock the iPhone permanently but allows you to access some features and apps.

6.2 iCloud Unlocking Services

Several iCloud unlocking services claim to remove the iCloud lock permanently. However, use caution when selecting a service, as some may be scams or illegal.

7. Resetting iPhones with MDM Lock

7.1 Contact Your Organization’s IT Department

If your iPhone has an MDM lock, contact your organization’s IT department for assistance in removing the restrictions.

7.2 Third-Party MDM Bypass Tools

Several MDM bypass tools, such as iActivate and iMyFone LockWiper, can remove MDM locks from iPhones. Ensure the chosen tool is reliable and legal before proceeding.

8. Post-Reset Steps

8.1 Set Up Your iPhone

After resetting your locked or blocked iPhone, set up the device following the on-screen instructions.

8.2 Restore Your Data

Restore your data from the backup created earlier using iCloud, iTunes, or a third-party tool.

9. Preventing Future Locking and Blocking Issues

To prevent future locking and blocking issues, follow these tips:

• Regularly update your iPhone’s software.
• Use strong, unique passcodes and change them periodically.
• Keep a record of your Apple ID and password in a secure location.
• Regularly backup your iPhone’s data.

10. Conclusion

In this comprehensive guide, we have provided unique and effective solutions to reset a locked or blocked iPhone using various methods. By following the outlined steps and using reliable tools, you can successfully regain access to your iPhone and avoid future locking issues.