Forgot your iPhone passcode? How to reset it without the password
If you forget the passcode, the only official fix is to erase the iPhone and set it up again. Your backup brings your data back.
The fix
Method 1: from the Lock Screen (no computer)
- 1
Enter a wrong passcode until iPhone Unavailable or Security Lockout appears.
- 2
Tap Forgot Passcode at the bottom.
- 3
Changed your passcode in the last 72 hours?
Tap Enter Previous Passcode to unlock without erasing.
- 4
Otherwise, tap Start iPhone Reset and enter your Apple Account password.
The fix
Method 2: iCloud Find My
- 1
On another device, go to icloud.com/find and sign in.
- 2
Select the iPhone and choose Erase This Device.
The fix
Method 3: recovery mode with a computer
- 1
Turn the iPhone off and connect it to a Mac or a PC with the Apple Devices app.
- 2
Hold the side button (iPhone 8 and later) while connecting, until the recovery screen appears.
- 3
Choose Restore on the computer and wait for it to finish.
Frequently asked questions
Can I unlock my iPhone without losing data?
Only if you changed the passcode in the last 72 hours and remember the old one. Otherwise the iPhone must be erased. Your data comes back from an iCloud or computer backup.
Do I need my Apple Account password?
Yes. After erasing, Activation Lock asks for the Apple Account that was on the iPhone. Reset that password first if you have forgotten it too.
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