If a timer is shown, wait and enter the correct passcode. If you've forgotten it, tap Forgot Passcode? (iOS 17+) to use your previous passcode or reset with your Apple Account password, or erase it via Recovery Mode with a Mac or PC. You'll need your Apple Account password to get past Activation Lock afterwards.

What's going on

Each wrong passcode adds delay; after many attempts the iPhone blocks entry. There’s no way to bypass the passcode without erasing the device. This protects your data if the phone is stolen.

Recent iOS versions offer Forgot Passcode? → Start iPhone Reset on the lock screen, which erases the device using your Apple Account password, without a computer. Within 72 hours of changing the passcode you can also use the previous one.

What you'll see

  • “iPhone Unavailable. Try again in X minutes”.
  • “Security Lockout” screen.
  • No passcode field available.

Why it happens

  • Too many incorrect passcode attempts (by you, a child, or pocket presses).

How to fix it

  1. Wait for the timerIf a countdown shows, wait and enter the correct passcode carefully.
  2. Use Forgot PasscodeTap Forgot Passcode? in the corner. Choose Enter Previous Passcode (if changed within 72 hours) or Start iPhone Reset and enter your Apple Account password. This erases the iPhone.
  3. Restore with a computerIf that option isn't available: connect to a Mac (Finder) or PC (Apple Devices app/iTunes), put the iPhone into Recovery Mode (Volume Up, Volume Down, then hold Side until the recovery screen) and choose Restore.
  4. Set up and restore your dataAfter erasing, sign in with your Apple Account (to clear Activation Lock) and restore from iCloud or computer backup.
  5. Use Find My from another deviceiCloud.com/find → select the iPhone → Erase iPhone, if it's online.
How to confirm the fix: The iPhone goes through setup and you can sign in with a new passcode.

Stop it happening again

Use Face ID/Touch ID, keep iCloud backup on, and record your Apple Account password securely.