How to know if a device is stolen
i've been planning to buy a used Ipad (i cannot afford a brand new one yet) and i wanted to know how can i make sure that the device i'm buying is not stolen or blacklisted?
thank you
iPad (9th generation)
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If considering a previously used device, your best option would be to consider purchase of a renewed/reconditioned device directly from Apple. In so doing you have assurance of provenance - along with a warranty - while making a substantial saving over the cost of purchasing a new item. Apple’s own renewed/reconditioned stock is reportedly indistinguishable from a new item.
If considering purchase from elsewhere, assurance is more difficult. Reconditioned stock from reputable (but non-Apple) retailers should be of good provenance, but will lack the quality assurance of that sourced through Apple or and Apple Authorised Retailer.
If considering purchase from other sources, you must be very careful. Here is what Apple suggests when purchasing a previously used device:
Check for Activation Lock before you buy a device from someone else
Before you buy an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, from someone other than Apple or an authorized Apple reseller, make sure that the device is erased and no longer linked to the previous owner’s account. Follow these steps to check if the device is ready to use:
- Turn on and unlock the device.
- If the passcode lock screen or the Home screen appears, the device hasn't been erased. Ask the seller to completely erase the device by going to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. Don't take ownership of any used iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch until it's been erased.
- Begin the device setup process.
- If you're asked for the previous owner’s Apple ID and password, the device is still linked to their account. Hand the device back to the seller and ask them to enter their password. If the previous owner isn't present, contact them as soon as possible and ask them to use a browser to remove the device from their account. Don't take ownership of any used iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch until it has been removed from the previous owner’s account.
You will know that a device is ready for you to use when you're asked to "Set up your iPhone," “Set up your iPad," or “Set up your iPod” the first time you turn it on.
This user-tip, authored by one of our senior contributors, may be helpful in understanding the potential pitfalls of purchasing a previously used device:
The All Too Common SAD Reality of Buying … - Apple Community