The iCloud lock iPhone issue is one of the most misunderstood and risky traps when buying used or unofficial Apple devices. Many people in Bangladesh and India have lost money by purchasing iPhones that are locked and unusable. This guide breaks down how iCloud locks work, how scammers trick buyers, and how to check and avoid falling victim in 2025.

Table of Contents

What is iCloud Lock and Why It Exists

Apple’s iCloud Activation Lock is a security feature introduced to prevent stolen devices from being reused. When Find My iPhone is enabled, the device becomes locked to the Apple ID used during setup. Without that original Apple ID and password, no one else can activate or reset the phone — even with a factory reset.

How iCloud-Locked iPhones End Up in the Market

Most iCloud-locked iPhones are sold as “cheap deals” by scammers or dishonest resellers. These devices may be:

Stolen or Lost: The rightful owner never signed out
Returned or Abandoned: But not properly erased
Imported Unverified: Grey market units that didn’t pass clearance checks

Unsuspecting buyers think they’re getting a good price — until they find the phone is permanently unusable.

How to Check for iCloud Lock Before Buying

Always do the following before buying a used or unofficial iPhone:

Ask seller to go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset > Erase All Content and Settings in front of you
After reset, make sure the phone boots to the Hello screen without asking for Apple ID
If Apple ID login appears, the device is iCloud-locked — never buy it
Check IMEI status at Apple’s iCloud Activation Lock tool

Important: Don’t believe sellers who say “I’ll send the ID later” or “You can bypass it.” These are almost always scams.

What to Do If You Already Bought an iCloud-Locked iPhone

If you’ve accidentally bought one:

Try contacting the original seller and demand the Apple ID (rarely works)
Report the IMEI to police or cybercrime units if purchased from Facebook
Consider reselling the parts if legal in your area
Do not fall for “iCloud unlock” paid online tools — most are fake or illegal

Unfortunately, once an iPhone is iCloud-locked, there’s little you can do without the original Apple ID credentials.

User Story: Scam Victim in Dhaka

Rahat from Mohammadpur: “I bought an iPhone 12 Pro for ৳65,000 on Facebook. After reset, it asked for iCloud login. Seller vanished. Lost all my savings.”

This story is sadly common, especially among students and budget buyers.

Tips to Avoid iCloud Scams in Bangladesh & India

Never buy without full testing
Always check Apple ID is removed and reset is clean
Avoid courier transactions or offers that seem too good
Buy from verified platforms like Bikroy, Daraz, or physical stores

iPhone Display Size Comparison Chart – Bangla news

FAQs

What is iCloud lock on iPhones?
It’s a security feature that prevents unauthorized use of stolen or lost iPhones.
Can iCloud lock be legally removed?
Only by the original owner through Apple ID credentials.
Is it safe to buy used iPhones online?
Only if you meet the seller in person and verify everything, including Apple ID logout.
Are iCloud unlock services real?
Most are scams or illegal. Avoid them entirely.
What happens if I reset an iCloud-locked phone?
It will ask for the original Apple ID again and remain unusable.

The iCloud lock iPhone problem can turn a budget deal into a nightmare. Always verify devices fully before paying — and never believe in easy fixes.