When you reset a second-hand iPhone or try to activate a device, you may suddenly see the message iPhone Locked to Owner on the screen. This can be confusing and frustrating for many users. So what does it actually mean, and how can you remove it?
In this guide, we will explain what iPhone Locked to Owner is, why it appears, and 5 effective ways to unlock it, helping you quickly restore normal use of your device.
What is “iPhone Locked to Owner”？
“Locked to Owner” is a message related to Apple’s Activation Lock feature.
Activation Lock is a security function designed by Apple to protect user data and prevent unauthorized access. When Find My iPhone is enabled, the device becomes linked to the Apple ID of the original owner.
Even if the device is factory reset, it will still require the original Apple ID and password during activation. Otherwise, the screen will show:
iPhone Locked to Owner
Why Does “Locked to Owner” Appear?
Common reasons include:
- The iPhone was purchased second-hand without removing the previous Apple ID
- “Find My iPhone” was enabled on the device
- The device was factory reset
- Apple ID or password was forgotten
- The device is managed by an organization (MDM lock)
What to Do When an iPhone Appears “Locked to Owner”?
Below are the most common and effective solutions.
Method 1：Unlock iPhone Locked to Owner with Computer using iToolab UnlockGo
iToolab UnlockGo (iOS) is a professional unlocking tool designed for Apple devices. It supports removing iCloud Activation Lock, bypassing MDM restrictions, unlocking Apple IDs, and removing screen passcodes. With a user-friendly interface and straightforward process, it can be used in a variety of common iPhone and iPad unlocking scenarios.
UnlockGo Key Functions
- Supports Activation Lock removal
- Supports bypassing MDM management restrictions
- Supports iPhone 5s to iPhone 17, as well as selected iPad and iPod models
- Easy to use and suitable for everyday users
- Compatible with multiple iOS versions
How to Use UnlockGo for iPhone 13 iCloud Unlock
Step 1: Download and Install the iToolab UnlockGo (iOS)
Install and launch UnlockGo on your computer.
Step 2: Connect Your Device
Use a USB cable to connect your iPhone to the computer.
Step 3: Select the Feature
Choose the “Unlock iCloud Activation Lock” option.
Step 4: Start the Unlock Process
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the required steps.
Step 5: Wait for Completion
Once the process is finished, your device will be ready to proceed with activation.
Method 2: Unlock Using Screen Passcode
Requirements
- You know the device screen passcode
- The system supports the “Unlock with Passcode” option
Steps
Step 1: Tap Unlock with Passcode
Step 2: Enter the device screen passcode.
Step 3: Complete the verification process.
Method 3: Contact Apple Support
Requirements
- Proof of purchase
- Proof of ownership
- Device serial number
- IMEI information
Steps
Step 1: Contact Apple Support.
Step 2: Submit the required verification documents.
Step 3: Wait for Apple to verify device ownership.
Method 4: Remove the Device via iCloud
Requirements
- You can contact the previous owner
Steps
Step 1: Sign in to iCloud.
Step 2: Open Find My iPhone.
Step 3: Click “All Devices”.
Step 4: Select the target device.
Step 5: Click “Erase iPhone”.
Step 6: Click “Remove from Account”.
Method 5: DNS Bypass
Requirements
This method only works on certain older iOS versions, including:
- iOS 8
- iOS 9
- iOS 10
For the latest iOS versions, the success rate is extremely limited.
Steps
Step 1: Start setting up the device.
Step 2: Go to the Wi-Fi settings screen.
Step 3: Tap the “i” icon next to the current Wi-Fi network.
Step 4: Modify the DNS settings.
Step 5: Enter the DNS server address for your region.
Step 6: Return to the activation screen and test the bypass.
Please note that this method does not actually remove Activation Lock. It only provides a temporary workaround and is not a permanent solution.
FAQ
Q1: Does a factory reset remove Activation Lock?
No. Even after a factory reset, the device will still require verification of the original Apple ID when it is reactivated.
Q2：Why is my iPhone Locked to Owner after reset?
Because Find My iPhone was enabled on the device.
After the device is reset, Apple automatically activates Activation Lock to prevent unauthorized users from accessing or using it.
Q3：Does DNS bypass still work in 2026?
For most modern iOS versions, DNS Bypass is no longer a reliable solution.
Apple has fixed these security loopholes in later iOS updates.
Conclusion
If your iPhone shows the “Locked to Owner”, there’s no need to panic. You can first try unlocking it with the device passcode, ask the previous owner to remove the device through iCloud, or contact Apple Support and submit proof of ownership for assistance. If you cannot access the original Apple ID information, you may also consider using a professional Activation Lock removal tool such as iToolab UnlockGo. By choosing the method that best fits your situation and device status, you can usually find an effective solution.
