Check for simple mistakes
Before attempting more drastic measures, let's rule out any simple errors that might be preventing you from unlocking your iPhone. Sometimes, a small oversight is all it takes.
- Ensure you're not accidentally typing your old passcode. Your muscle memory might be defaulting to it.
- If you've recently changed your passcode, try recalling any simple patterns or numbers you frequently use.
- Make sure no one else has changed your passcode without your knowledge. Speak to family members or housemates.
Tip
Remember that passcodes are intentionally difficult to guess for security reasons. Take your time and don't rush!
Use Face ID or Touch ID if available
If you have Face ID or Touch ID set up, these can be your quickest way to regain access to your iPhone without needing your passcode.
- For Face ID, simply look at your iPhone while it's awake and unlocked, ensuring your face is clearly visible to the camera.
- For Touch ID, place the enrolled finger on the Home button (or side button for some models) until the device unlocks.
- If Face ID or Touch ID isn't working, try turning your phone off and on again. This can sometimes resolve temporary glitches.
Good to know
After several failed passcode attempts, you might be required to enter your passcode even if Face ID or Touch ID is enabled. This is a security measure.
Erase your iPhone using Find My
If you cannot recall your passcode and your iPhone is connected to the internet, you can use Find My to erase your device and then restore it from a backup.
- On another device, go to iCloud.com/find or use the Find My app.
- Sign in with your Apple ID and password.
- Select your iPhone from the list of devices.
- Choose Erase This Device. Confirm your decision.
- Once erased, you can restore your iPhone from a recent backup during the setup process.
Important
Erasing your iPhone will delete all data and settings. Only proceed if you have a recent backup or are prepared to lose your current data.
Restore your iPhone using Recovery Mode
If Find My isn't an option, or if your iPhone is offline, you can use Recovery Mode to restore your device. This will also erase your iPhone.
- Connect your iPhone to a computer. On a Mac with macOS Catalina or later, open Finder. On a Mac with macOS Mojave or earlier, or on a PC, open iTunes.
- Put your iPhone into Recovery Mode. The steps vary by model:
- iPhone 8 or later: Press and quickly release the Volume Up button. Press and quickly release the Volume Down button. Then, press and hold the Side button until you see the Recovery Mode screen.
- iPhone 7 or 7 Plus: Press and hold the Volume Down button and the Power button at the same time. Keep holding them until you see the Recovery Mode screen.
- iPhone 6s or earlier: Press and hold both the Home and the Power button at the same time. Keep holding them until you see the Recovery Mode screen.
- On your computer, when prompted, choose Restore. Confirm your decision.
- After the restore process is complete, set up your iPhone as new or restore it from a backup.
Good to know
This method is more involved but is a reliable way to regain access if other options fail. Ensure you have a stable internet connection for the restore.
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JD
Written by
Jordan DicksonFounder, CyberSecurityGuides
Founder of CyberSecurityGuides, writing practical, jargon-free guides that help everyday people recover from and protect against online attacks.
Reviewed by CSG Security Engineers