iPad Pro Activation Lock after reset, cannot access Apple ID

Question

Level 1

5 points

iPad Pro Activation Lock after reset, cannot access Apple ID

I bought an iPad pro back in 2019 and recently reset it before selling. After the reset, the iPad is now stuck on the Activation Lock screen. It shows a masked Apple ID (j*****@icloud.com),

The problem is:

my email isnt working that was attached to the ipad
My iPad still shows under my Find My (as a ghost device), but I cannot remove it. it says “offline” and gives an error.
I restored the device, but the activation lock still shows.

What is the correct way to recover or unlock the device in this situation? is there any way to identify which Apple ID is linked to the device?

Posted on Nov 19, 2025 6:03 AM

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Answer 1

lkrupp

Level 7

22,123 points

Nov 19, 2025 4:40 PM in response to moizhamid

Then unless you are the original owner and can produce the original sales receipt with the correct serial number you are completely out of luck and will never be able to use that iPad again. This is all about security and theft deterrent and there are no workarounds or bypasses without Apple’s involvement.

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Answer 2

lkrupp

Level 7

22,123 points

Nov 19, 2025 6:24 AM in response to moizhamid

When you prepared the iPad for resale did you follow all the instructions, especially the part about signing out of everything before you performed the reset.

Sell, give away, or trade in your iPad - Apple Support

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