Bypass iOS Passcode: Legal Methods That Work

If you’re locked out of your own iPhone or iPad and can’t remember the passcode, you have a few legitimate options to regain access. This guide covers the official recovery methods that work on current iOS versions, including what you’ll need and how to avoid common pitfalls. Note that bypassing a passcode on a device that is not yours is illegal and not covered here.

What You’ll Need

A computer with the latest version of iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac, macOS Catalina or later)
A USB cable compatible with your device
Your Apple ID and password (if you have Find My iPhone enabled)
Access to the trusted phone number or email associated with your Apple ID (for two-factor authentication)
If the device is an iPhone with Face ID, a SIM card eject tool (for some methods)

Step-by-Step

Method 1: Recovery Mode (Works for All Devices)

Turn off your iPhone or iPad. Press and hold the Side button (or Top button) and either volume button until the power off slider appears. Drag the slider to power off.
Connect your device to your computer. Use a USB cable and plug it into your computer. Keep the cable unplugged from the device for now.
Enter Recovery Mode. The button combination depends on your device model:
- iPhone 8 or later, iPad with Face ID: Press and quickly release the Volume Up button, then Volume Down, then press and hold the Side button until the recovery mode screen appears.
- iPhone 7/7 Plus, iPod touch: Press and hold the Side (or Top) button and the Volume Down button simultaneously until the recovery mode screen appears.
- iPhone 6s and earlier, iPad with Home button: Press and hold the Home button and the Side (or Top) button simultaneously until the recovery mode screen appears.
Keep holding the buttons. While holding, connect the USB cable to the device. Keep holding until you see the Recovery Mode screen (a computer icon with a lightning cable).
On your computer, a dialog will appear. It should say “There is a problem with the iPhone that requires it to be updated or restored.” Click Restore.
Wait for the restore to complete. Your computer will download the iOS software and restore your device to factory settings. This erases the passcode and all data.
Set up your device. After the restore, follow the on-screen setup steps. If Find My iPhone was enabled, you’ll be asked for your Apple ID password. If you don’t have it, you’ll be stuck at the Activation Lock screen.

Method 2: Using iCloud Find My (If Find My iPhone is Enabled)

Go to iCloud.com/find on any computer or phone and sign in with your Apple ID.
Select the locked device from the “All Devices” drop-down at the top.
Click “Erase iPhone.” This will remotely erase the device, including the passcode.
Wait for the erase to complete. The device must be connected to the internet (Wi-Fi or cellular) for this to work. If it’s offline, the erase will start when it next connects.
After the erase, you can either restore from a backup or set up as new. You’ll still need your Apple ID password to remove Activation Lock.

Method 3: Using iTunes/Finder to Restore (If You’ve Synced Before)

Connect your device to the computer you normally sync with.
Open iTunes or Finder. If asked to trust the computer, tap “Trust” on your device (you may need to enter your passcode—if you can’t, this method won’t work).
Select your device when it appears in the app.
Click “Restore iPhone.” Confirm that you want to restore. This will erase the device and install the latest iOS.
Set up your device. You can restore from a backup if you have one, or set up as new.

Common Mistakes

Not backing up regularly. If you restore without a backup, you lose all data. Always keep an iCloud or computer backup.
Forgetting your Apple ID password. Even after erasing, Activation Lock will block you if you don’t know the Apple ID and password. Write it down securely.
Using the wrong button sequence. Entering Recovery Mode incorrectly can just turn the device on normally. Double-check your model’s combination.
Disconnecting the device during restore. This can cause errors or leave the device in a non-functional state. Wait until the progress bar finishes.
Assuming the passcode is gone after a restore. The passcode is removed, but the Activation Lock remains if Find My iPhone was on.

Tips

Try to remember the passcode first. Write down possible combinations and try them systematically. You have a limited number of attempts before the device locks for longer periods.
Use a backup to restore data. After erasing, you can restore from an iCloud or iTunes backup. This will bring back your photos, apps, and settings—but not the passcode.
Check if the device is linked to your Apple ID. Go to iCloud.com and see if the device appears. If it does, you can use the Find My erase method.
Keep your Apple ID password in a password manager. This prevents future lockouts.
If you’re buying a used device, ask the seller to remove Activation Lock. Otherwise, you may be stuck.

Troubleshooting

Device not showing in iTunes/Finder. Try a different USB port or cable. Restart your computer. Make sure you have the latest version of iTunes (or macOS).
Recovery Mode not appearing. You may be holding the buttons too long or not long enough. Try again, and make sure the device is off before starting.
Error 4013 or 9 during restore. This is often a USB or driver issue. Try a different cable, port, or computer. Update your computer’s software.
Activation Lock screen after restore. Enter your Apple ID and password. If you don’t have them, you’ll need to contact Apple Support with proof of purchase.
Device stuck in Recovery Mode loop. Try a force restart: press and release Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears. If that fails, repeat the restore process.
iCloud erase not working. The device must be online. If it’s offline, wait. If it’s been days, the device may be disconnected from the internet—try the Recovery Mode method instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I lose all my data if I restore?

Yes, restoring erases everything on the device. However, if you have a backup, you can restore your data after the erase. The backup does not include the passcode.

Can I bypass the passcode without a computer?

If Find My iPhone is enabled, you can erase the device remotely via iCloud.com/find. Otherwise, you need a computer with iTunes or Finder to enter Recovery Mode.

What is Activation Lock and why is it blocking me?

Activation Lock is a security feature that requires your Apple ID password after a restore. It prevents someone else from using your device if it’s lost or stolen. You must enter the Apple ID that was previously linked to the device.

What if I bought a used iPhone and the seller didn’t remove their Apple ID?

You’ll need to contact the seller and ask them to remove the device from their Apple ID account. If they can’t, you may be unable to use the device. Apple Support can help if you have proof of purchase.

Can I use a third-party tool to bypass the passcode?

Most third-party tools are scams or unreliable. They often require a computer and may not work on the latest iOS. They can also compromise your security. Stick to official methods.

How long does the restore take?

It depends on your internet speed and the iOS version. Typically, it takes 10-30 minutes for the download and installation. The device will restart automatically.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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