If someone owns a MacBook, chances are they have once misplaced it in their home or workplace. When that happens, are there concerns that someone could find the device, get into it, and cause all sorts of identity theft-oriented issues for the user?
The situation above is (arguably) why Apple introduced the Activation Lock feature, which can be found on the Find My application. This feature allows owners of MacBooks, iPhones, and iPads to secure their Apple ID login information successfully. It creates a second layer of security for the user, and Activation Lock operates within the background, so when a MacBook thief, it comes up when a MacBook thief may least expect it. As confirmed by Apple, Activation Lock can only be found MacBooks installed with macOS Catalina or higher and if the computer has the Apple T2 Security Chip.
In a hypothetical situation, what about a MacBook owner seeking to sell their computer? What if a customer sends in their 2018 MacBook Pro to a repair company for refurbishing? If the customer does not turn off the Activation Lock, the company’s staff will open it up, log on, and nothing. They cannot do anything with the MacBook, and it can be an even bigger issue if the customer wipes the hard drive because it bricks it. No one wants a paperweight that cost four figures.
It is essential to shut off Activation Lock before shipping the MacBook out to a repair shop or company. That said, it is not something you can at the push of a button, but not something complicated.
Q: I am looking to undo the activation lock on my MacBook Pro because I am selling it. What do I do?
A: The Activation Lock can be disabled through your MacBook itself or by logging onto iCoud.com.
When you find out Activation Lock is on and are looking to get it prepared for shipping, the following steps will guide you on how to turn it off.
- Click on the Apple icon on the top menu.
- In this menu, click on Apple ID.
- Next, look for an option labeled iCloud and click on that.
- On this menu, click the Find My Mac option and the other option to shut it off.
- Finally, click on the Sign Out button.
- Activation Lock will be successfully shut off.
However, if your MacBook has sustained liquid spill damage and the screen will not turn on, Activation Lock can still be shut off. It will require using a different device that is, hopefully, connected to the Internet and has a working screen.
Here is what you should do in that situation:
- Type in iCloud.com in your Internet browser and log into the website with your Apple ID.
- Look for the Find iPhone icon and click on it.
- There is an option titled All Devices. Click on that to bring up an additional menu featuring all the devices tied to your Apple ID.
- From that list, choose your MacBook.
- On this option, click on Erase Mac, which will bring up another menu.
- Select Next until your device is erased.
- Click on the X icon next to your MacBook. After that, Activation Lock will be turned off.
If you are unsure if your MacBook has the Activation Lock on, here is what you do:
- Click on the Apple icon in the top menu and select About this Mac.
- In this menu, click on System Report, which will have the Hardware option.
- Next, click on Hardware and look for Activation Lock Status. Clicking on this will show whether it is on or off.
Activation Lock is a great feature to have on your MacBook, especially if you habitually lose it. But, if you are eager to sell their device, it is good to know how to shut it off. After all, when you give it to a repair company, it will help you avoid having to exchange emails or phone calls to log onto the MacBook.
At MicroReplay, we know a thing or two about MacBooks and how to repair these devices. With over twenty plus years of experience, our company specializes in repairing liquid damaged MacBooks and other high-end laptops.
In need of a liquid spill or cracked screen repair? Book a repair with us today!
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