What Happens to My Photos After Signing Out of iCloud on My Sold iPhone?
Asked by
CuriousCat89
I'm in a bit of a panic! I recently sold my old iPhone 13 and was trying to make sure everything was set before handing it over. I had reset the iPhone, and when I logged back into my Apple ID, I noticed that I could still see some of my old photos and messages. Before the buyer arrived, I chose to 'Sign out' from iCloud but didn't hit 'Erase' the device. Now that the buyer is using their own Apple ID, I'm really worried—will my remaining photos and messages still be on the phone, or will they be deleted?
Answers
It sounds like you might have left a little bit of a 'bonus' for the new owner. When you signed out, your photos and messages will still remain on the device until the new owner decides to erase the phone or use the Find My iPhone feature to wipe it remotely. So, technically, they could still see your old photos unless they do something to remove them.
Reply to this answer
No worries, they won’t see your old stuff! When the buyer logs in with their own Apple ID, they won’t have access to your iCloud photos or messages. The only reason you could see them after signing in was because those files were still linked to your account. If you didn’t download any of them onto the device, your stuff should stay safe. Just remember for next time—don't log back in after a reset; leave it completely wiped before selling!
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WorriedSeller320: Even if I signed out and they signed in with their Apple ID?
GadgetGuru77: Yep! Your stuff is still on there until they wipe the phone, so just a heads up!