Will my refurbished MacBook be locked to a previous owner?
“Locked” can mean a few different things. Here’s how to tell which one you’re dealing with on your MacBook, and how to fix it.
What is Activation Lock?
This ties a device to its previous owner’s account so no one else can use it. It must be removed before a device can be set up, returned, sold or repaired.
Apple Activation Lock (Find My)
Apple devices are protected by Activation Lock, tied to the previous owner’s Apple ID. A device we sell will arrive ready to set up - but if you ever need to remove your own Apple ID (for a return, sale or repair):
- On the Mac: System Settings → [your name] → iCloud → Find My Mac and turn it off, then sign out of your Apple Account.
- Remotely (if you no longer have the device): go to icloud.com/find → All Devices → select the device → Remove from Account.
Tip: Forgotten your Apple ID password? Reset it at iforgot.apple.com.
What if I am locked out by a passcode?
If you’re locked out by a forgotten passcode, you’ll need to erase the device and set it up again - back up first if you can. See Setup to get going again.
A device that’s still signed in to an account can’t be processed for a return, sale or repair until the lock is removed.
Still need a hand? Contact our support team.
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