14 DAY TRIAL // In a surprising move, Apple has decided to remove the iCloud Activation Lock that allowed users to check an IMEI or series number of an iOS device. Starting this week, this is not possible any longer, since Apple removed any trace of the site.
The new change is likely meant to discourage customers from buying used iOS devices from other people and third-party sellers, devices that are not completely new.
However, the removal of the iCloud Activation Lock will probably lead to an increase in iPhones theft, since third-party retailers can sell these devices much more easily now.
Usually, when someone wants to buy an iOS device from a third-party reseller or another person, they will check the device's IMEI and see if it's locked or not before purchasing that device. The process was made easier by the fact that the iCloud Activation Lock tool was available online.
Now that Apple has removed it, it will make it more difficult for someone to check an iOS device's status, and impossible to do an online check.
Beginning January 24, Apple advises customers who wish to check for Activation Lock before buying a used device to ensure that the device is erased and no longer linked to the previous owner's account.
No online method to check if an iOS device is locked remains
In order to check that, you will need to turn the device on and slide to unlock. If the passcode lock screen or the Home screen appears, then the device hasn't been erased.
You will then have to ask the seller to completely erase the device by heading to Settings / General / Reset / Erase All Content and Settings.
As soon as the device asks you to “Set up your iPhone,” “Set up your iPad,” or “Set up your iPod” the first time you turn it on, you will know that the device has been erased and is ready to be used.
If by any chance you buy a device that is still linked to the previous owner's account, you will have to contact the owner and ask them to erase the device and remove it from their account.