- Part 1. How to Remove Activation Lock without Previous Owner with FoneLab iOS Unlocker
- Part 2. How to Remove Activation Lock without Previous Owner via Apple Support
- Part 3. How to Remove Activation Lock without Previous Owner through DNS Bypass
- Part 4. FAQs about How to Remove Activation Lock without Previous Owner
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How to Remove Activation Lock without Previous Owner Properly
Updated by Bon Lewis / November 07, 2025 07:00Greetings! Would it be possible to remove activation lock without previous owner? I purchased a second-hand iPhone from an online seller, and it has been working well since I received it. However, once I started setting it up, I realized the previous owner hadn’t removed the activation lock, which prevented me from fully owning and setting up the device. Please help.
The Activation Lock is Apple’s security feature designed to protect devices from unauthorized access in the event of loss or theft. While it is essential for protecting your personal information, it can also become a significant hindrance for legitimate owners who acquire second-hand devices that are locked. Worse, some can’t even contact the previous owner. Fortunately, there are official and safe approaches to address this issue without resorting to unethical or illegal methods. Whether you want to rely on Apple’s support or prefer other professional activation lock removal methods, the sections below have your back.
Guide List
- Part 1. How to Remove Activation Lock without Previous Owner with FoneLab iOS Unlocker
- Part 2. How to Remove Activation Lock without Previous Owner via Apple Support
- Part 3. How to Remove Activation Lock without Previous Owner through DNS Bypass
- Part 4. FAQs about How to Remove Activation Lock without Previous Owner
Part 1. How to Remove Activation Lock without Previous Owner with FoneLab iOS Unlocker
FoneLab iOS Unlocker stands out as a highly regarded solution when facing various locks, including the activation lock on Apple devices. It can efficiently handle your device, even without the help of the previous owner. Thus, many users who have already experienced this tool’s functionality highly recommend it for several reasons, especially its effectiveness. Additionally, it features a user-oriented design, letting you regain full access to your device with minimal hassle.
FoneLab Helps you unlock iPhone screen, Removes Apple ID or its password, Remove screen time or restriction passcode in seconds.
- Helps you unlock iPhone screen.
- Removes Apple ID or its password.
- Remove screen time or restriction passcode in seconds.
Meanwhile, regarding FoneLab iOS Unlocker’s function, you can look forward to its efficient and comprehensive approach to iOS unlocking. Despite having no experience with this program or other unlock solutions, you can expect not to get lost, as developers have specially designed it to cater to all users, including beginners. Furthermore, it handles both iOS and iPadOS devices, regardless of their models. So, compatibility will be the least of your problems.
Understand the user-oriented steps below as an example of how to remove activation lock without previous owner with FoneLab iOS Unlocker:
Step 1First, find FoneLab iOS Unlocker’s site through your trusted browser. Its key page will show the Free Download button, so immediately choose it to save the tool’s installer. Once it shows up in your Downloads, initialize the file to install the unlocking tool. It won’t take much time until the process finishes, displaying the Start tab. Simply hit it to initialize the interface.
Step 2Once you see the features it offers, go directly to the Bypass iCloud Activation Lock section located at the bottom right of the screen. The interface will then require your Apple device to connect, so simply use a Lightning cable. If you experience difficulty connecting, you may click Device connected but not recognized to view further instructions. Follow them until the tool detects your device.
Step 3Once linked, a Start button will materialize on the succeeding interface. Click it to display the following on-screen prompts and guidelines. You must navigate them accordingly, and once you complete the procedure, the unlocker will remove the activation lock from your Apple device, even without the previous owner's assistance. You can then begin setting it up according to your preferences.
Part 2. How to Remove Activation Lock without Previous Owner via Apple Support
In addition to the professional activation lock remover mentioned above, you can also rely on Apple support to gain access to your device without the previous owner's information. Apple has a technical support team that addresses various device issues reported by Apple users. The good news is that among the concerns they can service is the Activation lock. You must access Apple Support’s official page and navigate to the relevant options to request help with your device lock. On the other hand, visiting an authorized store directly is also an excellent option for seeking Apple Support. The technicians will then handle your problem. However, please expect that the service won’t be free.
Be guided by the effortless navigation below to grasp how to remove activation lock without previous owner without computer via Apple Support:
Step 1Visit Apple Support’s main website, then select your device, which is locked with Activation Lock, from the list of devices under Apple Support. On the following page, scroll down slightly and click Learn how to reactivate.
Step 2Afterward, scroll down again until you see and select the Start an Activation Lock support request option. You will then be given more options, but choose For a personally owned device under Need additional support. Finally, acknowledge the displayed terms before clicking Continue to request support.
Part 3. How to Remove Activation Lock without Previous Owner through DNS Bypass
DNS is also an effective technique for bypassing your Apple device’s activation lock, even if it was previously owned by someone else. If you’re unaware, entering a third-party DNS or Domain Name Server allows you to access your locked device’s Home screen. However, unlike the prior methods, you can’t expect a smooth and guaranteed performance with this one. Unfortunately, its effect is only temporary, and the lock may return eventually. Aside from that, the procedure is also not as effortless as it may seem, as it can be confusing to some. So, DNS bypass is the last option we recommend if you prefer not to use the first ones.
Imitate the stress-free instructions below to determine how to remove activation lock without previous owner free through DNS bypass:
Step 1Initially, restart your Apple device and then proceed with the setup process. Once you see the Choose A Network button, select it and choose the i symbol aligned with the WiFi network you prefer. Next, select Configure DNS and then choose the Manual option. Then, input a DNS based on your location.
North America: 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
Step 2Once done, tap Back and connect to the WiFi to which you changed the DNS. Once you have successfully completed the procedure, your device will bypass the activation lock, allowing you to access it.
Part 4. FAQs about How to Remove Activation Lock without Previous Owner
Can I remove activation lock Apple Watch without previous owner?
Yes, you can. Relying on Apple Support would be the best option for removing the activation lock on your Apple Watch. Feel free to learn the instructions in Part 2.
Will the device’s data disappear when I remove the activation lock?
Unfortunately, yes. All secure methods for removing the activation lock without the previous owner require erasing the device’s data.
Finding yourself locked out of a device due to activation lock can be frustrating, especially when the previous owner is unavailable. However, there's a solution. With the help of the strategies above, you no longer have to browse different platforms and try risky methods. This article’s suggested methods, especially FoneLab iOS Unlocker, provide practical ways to restore your device's access safely by removing the activation lock.
