How to confirm an iPhone has no iCloud/Activation Lock before you buy

Myth: You can tell by powering the phone on

Many buyers think that **if the phone boots to the home screen it's unlocked**. That feels right. But the activation lock can still be tied to the seller's Apple ID even after setup steps that look normal.

Reality: Activation Lock lives in iCloud, not just the screen

The true check is whether the device is still linked to an Apple ID. **If it is, you will eventually be blocked** from using key features. Ask the seller to show the Settings screen that proves the phone is not signed in to an iCloud account.

Myth: A factory reset removes Activation Lock

Some sellers say a reset clears everything. That can be true for app data, but **the lock can survive a reset** if the iPhone was not removed from the original owner's iCloud account first.

Reality: Activation Lock requires the owner's iCloud removal

The only sure way to clear Activation Lock is for the listed Apple ID owner to remove the device from their iCloud account. **You need to see that removal happen**. If the seller can't or won't do this, walk away.

Myth: The seller's passcode proves it's unlocked

A seller who enters a passcode to show the phone working may seem helpful. But that only proves access for that moment. **It does not prove the device is cleared from the previous owner's account.**

Reality: Ask to see Settings > [your name] or Activation Lock screen

On iPhones with iOS recent versions, go to Settings and tap the top line with the owner name. **If it shows "Sign in to your iPhone" or an Apple ID present, it may still be linked.** For older iOS, you may see Activation Lock during setup if it is stuck. You should insist on seeing the iCloud account area cleared.

Myth: Online IMEI checks are the final answer

People often trust third-party IMEI pages. They can help, but **they can be out of date or incomplete**. An IMEI check shouldn't replace hands-on verification.

Reality: Use IMEI checks as a backup, not the only test

Run an IMEI check to flag stolen status or carrier locks. **Then still perform live checks** on the device. If anything in the IMEI report conflicts with what the seller shows, be wary.

Micro-moment: the parking lot switch

You meet a seller at a coffee shop. They hand you a phone that boots and shows apps. You buy it. Later the phone asks for the previous owner's Apple ID and you can’t use it. That simple scene is how buyers lose money to Activation Lock myths.

Myth: A signed receipt makes the phone usable

A receipt only documents a sale. **It won't remove an Activation Lock**. Sellers can provide receipts and still sell a locked device.

Reality: Confirm full access before paying

Before you hand over cash, make sure you can sign in with your Apple ID, install an app, and toggle iCloud settings. **If something asks for the prior owner's Apple ID or password, stop the sale.**

Fast check before you pay

• Ask the seller to go to Settings and show the top Apple ID line is not signed in

• Verify you can add your Apple ID in Settings without being blocked

• Try erasing the device from Settings > General > Reset while the seller watches

• Confirm Activation Lock does not appear during an erase or on setup screens

• Run an IMEI/serial check as a secondary precaution

• Ask the seller to remove the device from their iCloud from another device if needed

• If anything feels off, decline the purchase and walk away

A clean reset and a quick port check can be the difference between "easy money" and "not worth it."

Today’s takeaway: Always get proof the Apple ID is gone before you pay.