I'm stuck in a tough situation with my iCloud account. I have an iPhone XR that I've used for about four years, and it recently took a fall, damaging the screen really badly. Now, I can't enter my passcode, and Face ID isn't working since it occasionally prompts for the passcode. The phone started acting up and locked after multiple wrong passcode attempts. I ended up buying a new iPhone 16 but can't log into my iCloud because it requires a verification code from my broken phone or a phone number linked to the account. I don't remember that number, only the last two digits, and I've searched my contacts with no luck. I've also contacted Apple Support, but they couldn't assist me effectively. I'm getting my old phone screen replaced to try and reset it, but the Apple employee warned it's a slim chance. I can verify ownership of the device and account, just not the phone number. Any suggestions on how to regain access?
3 Answers
This is such a tricky situation. Without that phone number, your options are pretty limited. Keep trying to gather any information you can remember; even details about when you set up the account could help if you have to go through recovery with support.
Unfortunately, Apple has set things up so that you need access to the phone number linked to your account to proceed with recovery. If the screen replacement fails, you might be out of luck unless you can recall the number or find a record of it. It’s crucial to have that number for recovery options.
That’s frustrating! I’d definitely recommend checking any old messages or accounts that might have that number saved.
If you can get the phone screen fixed, try accessing your settings to get the verification code. Check if you have any linked devices, like an iPad or Mac, which might also receive the code. If all else fails, resetting your account through Apple Support could be a long shot, but it might be worth pursuing if you have proof of ownership.
Thanks! I’m really hoping the screen fix works, but I’ll keep the support path in mind as a backup.
Right? It’s so important to keep those details handy for times like these!