Apple shows iOS device activation lock status with new tool

Apple has put a new web tool online that allows someone to check whether an iOS device’s activation lock is enabled or not. Only a serial number or imei code needs to be entered for the check.

With iOS features like find my iPhone and the activation lock, Apple hopes to prevent the theft of iPhones and iPads. A password and Apple ID are required to be able to unblock with an activated activation lock before data on an iOS device can be erased or a reinstallation is possible. This can sometimes cause problems or ambiguity when, for example, buying or selling second-hand iOS equipment.

Apple has launched a new web tool that allows you to view the status of an iOS device’s activation lock. For this, the input of an imei code or a serial number, together with a captcha, is sufficient. Should the Activation Lock be enabled on an iOS device, the tool will prompt that a valid Apple ID and password are required for unlocking. For example, the tool allows the buyer of a pre-owned iOS device to check whether it may have been blocked, for example because it was stolen or because the previous owner did not delete their account.