how do I remove an apple ID that isnt mine?

Hello kimarah,

You are encountering the activation lock feature or its related service iCloud - Find My - Apple . Deactivating either of these requires knowing the Apple ID and password that set them, or placing a special request to Apple to reset the device.

'Activation Lock for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch' is a "feature that's designed to prevent anyone else from using your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, if it's ever lost or stolen." To learn more click here --> Activation Lock for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support

In most cases to remove an activation lock absolutely requires the information for the account that applied the lock. Click on this link to learn 'How to remove Activation Lock' --> How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support

Get your friend to remove the lock, or return the device for a refund, or recycle the device. The device is otherwise useless to you.

Here are additional resources for your friend:

Help with a lost Apple ID or password:

• "If you forgot your Apple ID" [this is likely an email address you are using or used in the past] click here --> If you forgot your Apple ID email address or phone number - Apple Support

• "If you forgot your Apple ID password" click here --> If you forgot your Apple ID password - Apple Support

Reset device:

Apple can completely reset a device if a person can provide sufficient evidence of valid ownership. This is done online at: Activation Lock support request - https://al-support.apple.com/#/additional-support Apple says, "Proof of ownership documentation is required," but does not provide details in the article as to what is acceptable proof. Prior to this official service Apple typically required the original receipt* issued by Apple or an Apple Authorized Reseller and documented provenance (so typically it would be the original owner who does this, or a descendant with legal proof of ownership).

*Apple recommends you keep your receipt after you buy an Apple device. --> Keep your receipt after you buy an Apple device - Apple Support

Your friend will need to start here:

If you forgot your Apple ID email address or phone number - Apple Support