If I wanted to buy a second-hand Macbook, how do I make the seller ensure there's not an activstion block issue?
from cheese_greater@lemmy.world to nostupidquestions@lemmy.ca on 22 May 03:15
https://lemmy.world/post/47186278

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BCsven@lemmy.ca on 22 May 03:24 next collapse

Factory reset, and ensure you can login fresh with your own appleID or new ID.

There are ways to trick the apple items to boot like its fresh, but after a hard reset it will boot to a lock screen if it is still attached to somebody else.

At least that’s how it was when I picked up an apple product at a thrift store

sorrybookbroke@sh.itjust.works on 22 May 03:29 next collapse

Make sure where you buy from has good buyer protections.

Get them to send you the original receipt and the serial number if you can. If it’s under activation lock you should be able to submit a request to remove it As long as you have that, and can answer a few questions.

Usually, that’s stuff like what store did you buy it from and when. What’s their address or website. Takes some time but it’s likely to work. May not need all that info but it will ask for your best guess

AFter that process you wipe with a Mac or windows PC + apple devices app unless you can get to an apple store (they wipe for you) and log in with a new account. Good to go.

MrJameGumb@lemmy.world on 22 May 03:42 next collapse

They have to turn it off before they factory reset. I don’t know how you would know if they did it or not until you actually try to log into it though. I’d say just make sure you buy from a reliable seller with a good rating

tyler@programming.dev on 22 May 04:52 collapse

support.apple.com/en-us/102773