“This Apple ID is not active”: what it means and how to fix it
Apple locks an account after too many wrong passwords or security answers. In most cases you can unlock it yourself in a few minutes.
The fix
Unlock your Apple Account
- 1
Restart your iPhone and check Apple’s System Status page, in case it is a temporary glitch.
- 2
Go to iforgot.apple.com on any browser.
- 3
Enter your Apple Account email or phone number.
- 4
Confirm your trusted phone number and follow the prompts to unlock the account.
- 5
Set a new password, then sign in again on your devices.
Other messages you might see
“Disabled in the App Store and iTunes”
Often linked to an unpaid balance or payment issue. Update your payment method or contact Apple Support.
“Account has been locked for security reasons”
Unlock it at iforgot.apple.com. You may be offered account recovery if Apple cannot confirm your identity.
Frequently asked questions
Why did Apple lock my Apple Account?
Usually because someone, possibly you, entered the wrong password or security details too many times. Apple locks the account to protect it.
What does “not valid or not supported” mean?
The email or phone number you typed is not an Apple Account, or it is from a region the device does not support. Check the spelling, or sign in with the email you used to create the account.
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