MacBook M3 account locks for an hour after restart

Question

MacBook M3 account locks for an hour after restart

Lately, whenever I restart my machine, when the login screen comes up, I am presented with a message that reads "Your account is locked. Please try again in 59 minutes".

I have not attempted to log in
I have not mistyped my password
I don't even touch my computer
I can't use Recovery mode since I don't log in using a password

I just restarted again and it bumped BACK UP TO AN HOUR, even though it was down around 45 or 50 minutes.

The first few times this happened it was only 15 minutes, but now it's a full hour. I don't want to know what might happen if this jumps higher than one hour.

I use a MacBook M3 for work. I have a CAC card reader attached to my machine which requires that I log in with my PIN. Neither Touch ID or a traditional password is used. I almost never restart my machine anyway, but now I'm scared to do so.

Posted on Dec 1, 2025 12:51 PM

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Answer 1

HWTech

Level 9

68,444 points

Dec 2, 2025 9:18 AM in response to commadelimited

commadelimited wrote:

I have a CAC card reader attached to my machine which requires that I log in with my PIN. Neither Touch ID or a traditional password is used.

That may be the source of the problem. Perhaps try dropping that to see if it makes any difference. Of course, if this is required by your employer, then you will need to consult with your employer's IT team.

I almost never restart my machine anyway, but now I'm scared to do so.

Make sure you have frequent & regular backups since you will most likely become locked out at some point.....good advice regardless, but more important when facing these conditions.

Depending on what causes the lockout, you may be required to have Apple or an AASP unlock the Mac which would require acceptable proof of purchase & personal ID to confirm you are the legitimate owner of the device. Security related issues can easily lead to a bricked device as well since there may be some occasions Apple will not be able to do anything due to the security.

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Answer 2

Dec 1, 2025 1:10 PM in response to commadelimited

Any idea if your Mac was upgraded to Tahoe? Either way, I'd suggest contacting your employer's IT team for assistance.

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