I recently bought my first iPhone and signed in to iCloud using the Apple Account I originally created with my main Google email address and phone number. During setup, iCloud said there was a synchronization problem and asked for the password used to unlock an old MacBook that I sold. I no longer have the MacBook and cannot contact its current owner. The old device also does not appear among my trusted devices; only my new iPhone is listed. When I choose the option for not knowing the MacBook password, I'm only given "Try Again Later," with no way to change or reset it. This prompt also appears when I try to enable two-factor synchronization. What can I do to regain access to my iCloud data?
2 Answers
That password is probably being requested to unlock end-to-end encrypted iCloud data that was protected by the old MacBook. Look for an option such as “Don’t know the password” or “Reset end-to-end encrypted data.” Resetting it may remove access to protected items such as saved passwords, Health data, and other encrypted iCloud information, but it can let you start syncing again. If the reset option is unavailable, update the iPhone and contact Apple Support, since they may need to verify the account before helping.
If the MacBook was sold without being erased and signed out of your Apple Account, that needs to be addressed immediately. Remove the old Mac from your account through the device list or Find My, change your Apple Account password, and make sure two-factor authentication is enabled. If the MacBook is still linked to the account, Apple Support can explain the safest way to remove it. Don’t rely on the new owner to provide the old computer password.
When I tap “Don’t know the MacBook Air password?”, the warning only says that I may not be able to regain access to my iCloud data, and the only button available is “Try Again Later.” I don’t see an option to reset anything.