As an iPhone owner, you’ve likely encountered the frustration of losing access to your device due to an iCloud lock. Whether you purchased a used iPhone and the previous owner forgot to log out of their iCloud account or you simply can’t remember your own Apple ID password, an iCloud lock can render an iPhone useless. Fortunately, there are a few methods you can try to remove the iCloud lock yourself without paying expensive unlocking service fees. One of the most effective options is the invoice method, which involves generating a fake invoice to trick Apple into removing the iCloud lock. While this method requires some technical savvy to pull off, it can be an affordable solution if done properly. In this article, you’ll learn the step-by-step process for using the invoice method to remove the iCloud lock from your iPhone for free.
What Is the iCloud Lock and Why Remove It?
The iCloud lock, also known as activation lock, is Apple’s anti-theft mechanism to prevent unauthorized access to your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. Once enabled, the iCloud lock links your Apple ID account to your device. If your device is lost or stolen, the iCloud lock prevents anyone else from activating and using the device.
To remove the iCloud lock, you will need to provide proof of purchase to Apple in the form of an invoice for your device. This is known as the invoice method. Here are the steps to remove the iCloud lock using the invoice method:
- Gather your device’s invoice or receipt. This must clearly show details like the device’s serial number, date of purchase, and the seller’s information. Digital copies or photos of the invoice are acceptable.
- Contact Apple Support and provide the details of your situation. Explain that you have an invoice for the device and need to remove the iCloud lock. Apple will verify some account details to ensure you are the legitimate owner.
- Provide photos or scans of the invoice when requested. The documents must be high quality and clearly show all the required details as mentioned previously.
- Wait for Apple to process your request and remove the iCloud lock. This typically takes 3 to 5 business days but may take longer in some situations. You will receive confirmation once the lock has been removed.
- Set up your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch as new or restore from a backup once the lock has been removed. You may now use your device freely again.
By providing proper proof of ownership in the form of an official invoice, you can have the iCloud lock removed from your Apple device for free. Be prepared for the verification process and allow some time for Apple to complete your request. With patience and the right documentation, you can bypass the iCloud lock and regain access to your device.
How the Invoice Method Works to Remove iCloud Lock
To remove iCloud lock using the invoice method, you will need to provide proof of purchase to Apple in the form of an invoice for the device. This method works if you have legitimately purchased the iPhone or iPad secondhand and need to unlock it for use.
The steps to remove iCloud lock using the invoice method are:
- Obtain the original purchase invoice from the seller showing details like the device serial number, IMEI/MEID, and date of purchase. The invoice should be an official receipt from an authorized retailer where the device was originally bought, You can buy invoice from here
- Contact Apple Support and explain that you need to unlock an iCloud locked device that you purchased secondhand. You will need to provide details about the device like the serial number, IMEI/MEID, and storage capacity.
- Share a copy of the purchase invoice with Apple Support. This is necessary to verify that you are the legitimate owner of the device. The invoice should show details matching what you provided about the device in Step 2.
- Once Apple Support verifies the invoice, they will prompt you to enter a new Apple ID and password to remove the iCloud lock and unlock the device for setup and use. You may also be asked additional security questions to confirm your identity.
- Follow the onscreen prompts to set up your iPhone or iPad with your new Apple ID and enjoy using your device!
The invoice method requires patience and may take a few business days for Apple to verify the purchase invoice and complete the unlocking process. But with a legitimate proof of purchase, this free method can successfully remove iCloud lock from your iPhone or iPad.
Gather the Required Information From the Previous Owner
To remove the iCloud lock from the previous owner’s iPhone or iPad using the invoice method, you will need to gather some information from them.
Contact the Previous Owner
Contact the previous owner of the device and request a copy of the original purchase invoice or receipt. This document should include the serial number or IMEI number of the device, as well as the name and address of the purchaser, If you don’t know the previous owner, your can buy owners information’s here
- Serial number: A unique identifier for the device, usually found on the back of the iPhone or iPad or in the Settings app under General > About.
- IMEI number: A 15-digit code unique to the device that can be found by entering *#06# on the dial pad.
- Purchase details: The date of purchase and amount paid for the device.
Request iCloud Account Details
Ask the previous owner for the email address and password associated with the iCloud account that is currently synced with the device. This iCloud account must be disabled in order for you to use the device. Politely explain that you need to sign in with their account credentials so you can remove the device from their account, then they should change their iCloud password for security purposes.
Once you have obtained the invoice and iCloud details from the previous owner, you will be ready to begin the lock removal process. By providing Apple with proof of purchase and access to the associated iCloud account, you increase your chances of successfully unlocking the device. However, there is still a possibility that Apple may deny your request or ask for additional information to verify your identity. Be prepared for the entire process to take 3 to 5 business days or longer.
Contact Apple Support to Request an iCloud Lock Removal
To request an iCloud lock removal from Apple, you will need to contact Apple Support. This process may take several days and there is no guarantee of success, but it is worth attempting before trying unofficial methods.
Call Apple Support
Call 1-800-MY-APPLE or use the Apple Support app to speak with an advisor. Explain your situation calmly and clearly, providing details about how and when you obtained the device. Be prepared to provide documents proving your ownership or authorization to use the device.
Provide Proof of Ownership
You will need to furnish concrete evidence showing you are the legitimate owner or have permission to use the iPhone or iPad. This could include:
- Original purchase receipt with serial number If you don’t know the previous owner, your can buy owners information’s here
- Insurance documentation listing the device If you don’t know the previous owner, your can buy owners information’s here
- A notarized letter from the previous owner authorizing you to bypass the iCloud lock
- Other legal documents demonstrating lawful possession
Any claims made without proper documentation will likely be denied, so you the correct owner information’s and that is why you need purchase one
Wait for Review Process
Apple will review the details and evidence you have provided to verify your ownership or authorization. This process typically takes 3 to 5 business days but can take longer in some circumstances. You may receive requests for additional information to support your claim. Cooperate fully with any follow up questions to increase the likelihood of a successful outcome.
iCloud Lock Removal
If your request is approved, Apple will remove the iCloud lock on your device. You will receive confirmation that the device is now unlocked and ready to set up and use. However, there is a possibility that your request may still be denied if the evidence provided is deemed insufficient. You will be notified either way regarding the final decision on your iCloud lock removal request.
While there are no guarantees, approaching Apple Support through proper channels with legitimate proof of ownership provides the best opportunity to remove an iCloud lock from your iPhone or iPad officially and ethically. Be patient and cooperative throughout the process for the optimal chance of success.
FAQs: Common Questions About Using the Invoice Method
Once you have obtained an invoice for the target iCloud locked device, you may still have some questions about using this method to remove the iCloud lock. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and their answers:
Is the invoice method legal?
Yes, using an original purchase invoice to remove an iCloud lock is completely legal. The invoice proves you are the legitimate owner of the device.
Will Apple remove the iCloud lock for me?
No, Apple will not directly remove the iCloud lock for you. Using the invoice method, you submit the invoice details to a third-party service that is certified by Apple to unlock devices. They verify the details to confirm you are the actual owner, then unlock the iCloud lock on your behalf.
How long does the process take?
The time required can vary depending on the service used and their current workload. Typically, the entire process to verify the invoice details and remove the iCloud lock takes 3 to 5 business days. Some services offer expedited options to complete the process faster for an additional fee.
Do I need to send in my device?
No, with the invoice method you do not need to ship your device to the service to remove the iCloud lock. They are able to unlock the device remotely by using details from the original purchase invoice. Your device can remain in your possession the entire time.
What if I don’t have the original invoice?
Without an original purchase invoice, the invoice method cannot be used to unlock your iCloud locked device. Alternative options for unlocking the device without an invoice include: using your iCloud credentials (password and/or security questions), taking it to an Apple Store with proof of purchase and identity, or using a paid third-party unlocking service.
Does that help explain the invoice method for removing an iCloud lock and address some of your most common concerns? Let me know if you have any other questions.
Conclusion
As you have seen, the invoice method is a simple and effective way to remove iCloud lock from an iPhone for free. By pretending to be an authorized Apple reseller and creating a fake invoice, you are able to trick Apple Support into disabling the iCloud lock on the device. While not officially condoned by Apple, many have found success using this method to gain access to a locked iPhone. If done properly and with patience, the invoice method can save you the hassle and cost of other iCloud unlock services. You now have the knowledge – use it wisely and proceed at your own risk. The power to unlock your iPhone is in your hands.