Hey everyone! I've had a rough time with my broken iPhone. Initially, I was told it was beyond repair, but later found out it could be fixed. However, after a bad experience with the repair shop and the cost being out of my budget, I went for a refurbished iPhone instead. I removed my old phone from my iCloud account since I'm not using it anymore. Now, I'm worried about what that means if I do decide to get it fixed later. If I've taken it off iCloud, does that unlock it for someone else? Are my passcode and Face ID still in place? Are my apps, messages, and photos still accessible on it? I have concerns about privacy, especially with my experiences regarding being outed. Any insights would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
1 Answer
Once you remove your old phone from iCloud, it really opens up access for someone who repairs it. They could reset it and set it up as their own without the iCloud activation lock. The only thing stopping them from getting in is your passcode and Face ID. Just remember, since you removed it from iCloud, you can't remotely erase it or mark it as lost or stolen anymore. You’d need to physically sign in on that device to regain control.
Also, it's really important to remember for anyone in the future: NEVER remove a lost or stolen iPhone or iPad from iCloud until you have it back in your hands.
Wait, so if I understand you correctly, does that mean my apps and messages would still be on the phone if it’s not erased?