Can You Really Bypass iCloud Activation with IMEI? 2026 Full Guide

Samuel Spenser Published on July 02, 2026Unlock iOS3-min reading

Many online sources claim that you can bypass iCloud Activation Lock for free with IMEI number. However, IMEI alone cannot remove or bypass iCloud Activation Lock. In this guide, we will break these scams, explain how IMEI actually works, how to find it on your device, and practical solutions available if your iPhone or iPad is locked.

Part 1: Can IMEI Number Unlock iCloud Activation Lock?

It is important to understand that iCloud Activation Lock is tied to the Apple ID, not the device's IMEI. IMEI alone cannot remove or bypass iCloud Activation Lock. The only legitimate methods to remove Activation Lock are entering the correct Apple ID credentials, asking the previous owner to remove the device from their account, or contacting Apple Support with valid proof of purchase.

What is IMEI?

The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit number unique assigned to every mobile device. No two mobile phones have the same IMEI number. It is mainly used by mobile carriers and manufacturers to identify devices on cellular networks. It can also help to identify stolen phones and manage tracking lost phones.

Part 2: How to Find and Verify IMEI Number on iPhone/iPad

IMEI number is like an ID card of a device. You can use it to ask Apple to unlock an iCloud-locked iOS device. Let's see how to find the IMEI number on iPhone or iPad.

Method 1: Check the Apple Device Box

If you still have the box of your iPhone or iPad, you can find the IMEI number on it.

• 1.Locate the back of the box.
• 2.Find a white barcode sticker.
• 3.Check the IMEI number of your iOS device.

Method 2: iPhone Locked to Owner Screen

If your iPhone or iPad is iCloud-locked, you can still find the device's IMEI number.

On the iPhone Locked to Owner screen, tap the Information button at the bottom right. Then, it will show IMEI number, Serial number, and device model.

Method 3: Finder or iTunes

You may note: For iOS devices that support two SIMs, there'll be two IMEI numbers.

Part 3: How to Bypass iCloud Activation with IMEI Number

iCloud Activation Lock is automatically turned on when Find My is enabled on the device. It becomes active when the device is reset without signing out of the Apple ID. Once triggered, the device cannot be set up again without entering the correct credentials. Next, we will look at the official methods you can use to remove Activation Lock.

Official Way to Remove iCloud Activation Lock on iPhone/iPad

When you've forgotten the Apple ID password and the former owner (if your iOS device is secondhand) cannot help you remove the iCloud lock, the only option is to contact Apple Support, whether by a physical store, webpage, or phone call.

Prepare IMEI number, Serial number, and the proof of purchase of your iCloud-locked device.

You may note: If your iPhone or iPad is second-hand, and you didn't get the proof of purchase, Apple Support won't help you.

Offline access: Go to a physical Apple Support near you

Webpage: iforgot.apple.com/unlock

Phone call: 1 (800) 275-2273 (for the US and Canada)

Apple Support will verify your info and help you unlock iCloud Activation Lock. You'll need to reset the Apple ID password or switch to another Apple ID. That's the only way to remove iCloud activation lock with IMEI number.

Are IMEI Remote Unlock Websites Reliable?

Maybe you've seen some online services that claim to help you unlock or bypass iCloud Activation Lock with an IMEI number, such as UnlockMaker. However, they are all scams and cannot help you bypass iCloud lock at all. Apple has been increasing security techniques to avoid those unofficial and illegal unlock methods.

Therefore, always follow the official way to unlock iCloud activation with IMEI number for free. However, if you cannot find the proof of purchase of your iPhone or iPad, how can you regain access? You can check the next method to bypass iCloud activation lock.

Part 4: How to Bypass iCloud Activation Without Passcode or IMEI

imyPass iPassGo is a user-friendly iOS unlock tool designed to assist individuals experiencing iCloud activation lock issues on their iPhone or iPad. If you are locked out of the iCloud Activation and cannot access the functionality of your iOS device, it offers a simplified solution. Follow the steps below to quickly remove the Activation Lock and regain access to its full features.

Conclusion

This article tells you how to unlock iCloud-locked iPhone with IMEI using the official method. It is important to be cautious of unauthorized free iCloud unlock services that promise instant remote unlocking. They are always not free and may pose security risks. Don't pay for them to waste your money and time.