How do I get into an iPhone with the activation lock on?

"Activation Lock for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch" is a security feature, one aspect of which is deterring re-selling of stolen devices. To learn more click here --> http://support.apple.com/HT201365

An activation lock can only be removed using information for the account that applied the lock. If you know this information follow the onscreen steps to enter the Apple ID and password used to set up the device, or enter the device passcode.

Click on this link to learn 'How to remove Activation Lock' --> https://support.apple.com/HT201441

If you do not know the required information and you are not the original owner, get the owner of the account to remove the lock or return the device for a refund or recycle it. The device is otherwise useless to you. If the owner is unknown and has not provided contact information as a message showing in the login screen, there is no way to contact the owner unless the person who gave you the device knows them.

If you are the original owner and have forgotten the log-in information, try to recover it:

• "If you forgot your Apple ID" [this is likely an email address you are using or used in the past] click here --> https://support.apple.com/HT201354

• "If you forgot your Apple ID password" click here --> https://support.apple.com/HT201487

Otherwise:

- Apple can completely erase a device if a person can provide sufficient evidence of valid ownership. Do this online here -->Activation Lock support request - https://al-support.apple.com/#/additional-support Apple says, "Proof of ownership documentation is required," but does not state what constitutes proof. Prior to this new online service Apple typically required the original receipt issued by an Apple Authorized dealer and documented provenance (so typically it would be the original owner who does this, or a descendant with legal proof of ownership).

Alternatively an Apple Store used to provide this service but I do not know if they still do.

See if you can recover the ID/password. Use every email address you can think of.

Apple ID - How to find your Apple    An iCloud e-mail address is an Apple ID.

Apple ID - Find              

If you forgot the Apple ID password, enter the Apple (iCloud) ID, and click Forgot Password. See if you can get a Rescue or Notification  email option if necessary.

Apple ID - Manage            

Apple ID – Forgot Password            

If necessary, if you are the original owner, contact Apple. Apple can remove the ID  if provided the required paperwork. 

Request additional support for unlocking your device

Either take the device, the original purchase receipt with the serial number, and a photo ID to the nearest Apple Store (if it has reopened). Call the store before going to make sure they can help.

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple.    

or contact Apple ID Support. 

 Apple ID - Official Apple Support.    

Contact Apple for help with Apple ID account security - Apple Support.      (Link doesn’t always load)   

Get Support   https://getsupport.apple.com        Work through the screens to get a chat option. 

Apple Support schedule phone call        

https://twitter.com/AppleSupport       People have posted it may take an hour or more to get a response.