Bought a Locked Phone by Mistake? Here's What to Do Next

Published on: June 16, 2025

It's a buyer's nightmare: you've purchased a used phone, only to discover it's locked and unusable. Whether it's an iCloud Lock, Google FRP Lock, carrier lock, or MDM lock, this situation can be stressful. But don't panic! Here are the steps you should take if you find yourself with an unexpectedly locked device.

1. Identify the Type of Lock

First, determine what kind of lock you're dealing with. This will guide your next actions:

• iCloud Activation Lock (iPhone/iPad): You'll see a screen asking for an Apple ID and password during setup.
• Google FRP Lock (Android): After a factory reset, it asks for the previously synced Google account.
• Carrier Lock (SIM Lock): The phone won't accept SIM cards from other carriers (e.g., "SIM Not Valid" message).
• MDM Lock (Mobile Device Management): The phone might mention being managed by an organization or have restricted features.
• Passcode/Screen Lock: The device is asking for a PIN, pattern, or password to even get to the home screen.
• Blacklisted IMEI: The phone may not get network service, and an IMEI check reveals it's reported lost or stolen.

Our previous article on troubleshooting common lock issues can help you pinpoint the exact problem.

2. Contact the Seller Immediately

This is your most crucial first step. Reach out to the person or business you bought the phone from as soon as possible.

• Explain the Situation Clearly: Describe the lock you're encountering. They might have forgotten to remove an account or be unaware of the lock.
• Request a Return or Refund: If the seller didn't disclose the lock, you have a right to a refund or exchange, especially if purchased from a reputable platform (eBay, Amazon, Swappa, etc.) that has buyer protection policies.
• Ask for Their Help to Unlock:
  • For iCloud or FRP locks, the seller (original owner) is usually the only one who can remove it by signing out of their account.
  • For carrier locks, they might be able to request an unlock from the carrier if the device is eligible.

Be Polite but Firm: Give the seller a chance to rectify the situation. Document all communication (emails, messages).

3. Utilize Buyer Protection Programs

If you bought the phone through an online marketplace:

• eBay: eBay has a robust Money Back Guarantee. If the item isn't as described (a locked phone is definitely not as described if not disclosed), you can open a case.
• PayPal: If you paid via PayPal, you might have purchase protection.
• Amazon: Amazon's A-to-z Guarantee can help if the phone was sold by a third-party seller and not as described.
• Swappa: Swappa has policies against selling locked phones and will assist buyers in resolving issues.

Familiarize yourself with the platform's specific dispute resolution process and follow it closely.

4. What if a Return/Refund Isn't Possible? Exploring Unlocking Options

If the seller is uncooperative or you bought the phone in a private sale without buyer protection, you might need to explore unlocking options. Be aware that not all locks can be removed, and costs can vary.

• iCloud Activation Lock / Google FRP Lock: These are the trickiest. While the original owner is the primary solution, some professional services like Easy Unlock may offer removal services for certain devices and situations. Exercise caution and choose reputable providers. If a service sounds too good to be true (e.g., guaranteed removal for any device cheaply), it probably is.
• Carrier Lock: This is often the easiest to resolve. If the phone isn't blacklisted and meets the original carrier's criteria (which you might not know), third-party IMEI unlocking services can usually unlock it for a fee. Easy Unlock specializes in these services.
• Passcode/Screen Lock: Forgetting the screen passcode usually requires a factory reset, which will erase all data on the phone. The iCloud/FRP lock might still be present *after* this reset if it was enabled.
• MDM Lock: Removing MDM typically requires cooperation from the managing organization. Some third-party services claim to remove MDM, but their effectiveness and legality can be a concern.
• Blacklisted IMEI: A phone with a blacklisted IMEI (reported lost or stolen) generally cannot be unblacklisted by third-party services and will not function correctly on most networks. Your best recourse is returning it to the seller.

5. Preventing This in the Future

To avoid this situation next time you buy a used phone:

• Buy from Reputable Sellers: Choose sellers with good reviews and clear return policies.
• Check Before You Pay: If buying in person, insist on testing the phone thoroughly. Ensure it's not signed into an iCloud or Google account, can make calls with your SIM (if supposed to be unlocked), and has been factory reset.
• Ask Questions: Specifically ask the seller if the phone is unlocked (carrier and activation locks) and fully paid off.
• Use IMEI Checkers: Before purchasing, use an IMEI checking service to check for blacklist status, Find My iPhone status (for Apple devices), and sometimes carrier lock status. Easy Unlock offers comprehensive checker services.

Accidentally buying a locked phone is a frustrating experience. By taking these steps, you can increase your chances of resolving the issue, either by getting a refund or exploring legitimate unlocking solutions. Remember, for reliable and professional unlocking and checker services, Easy Unlock is here to help.