Do you have an iPhone or a Mac? You must be aware of Apple ID. This is Apple’s unique identifier that is central to the entire ecosystem. In fact, the very first action you would do after switching on an Apple device is to create an Apple ID. With this account, you can buy apps from the App Store, music from iTunes, etc.
As much as the Apple ID allows you to access the vast ecosystem of Apple services and streamline your workflow, it can also cause a lot of annoyance and delays if the ID is locked. Everything will come to a screeching halt if you cannot access your Apple ID, and this might happen for various reasons. Continue reading to understand why the account might get locked and what to do to prevent such mishaps.
Why do Apple ID locks Occur?
Apple ID might be disabled because there have been several incorrect attempts to sign into the account. This might happen because you have forgotten the password or have made typographical mistakes. It may also happen because someone has made malicious attempts to access your account without authorization.
When your Apple ID is disabled or locked, you will see a message saying, “This Apple ID has been disabled for security reasons.”
What are the Consequences of Apple ID Locks?
A locked Apple ID account may put you into sticky situations. Some of the inconveniences caused are:
- Losing access to important data, such as iCloud data, and not being able to access applications associated with the Apple ID account.
- Not being able to access Apple services, such as Apple Music, iCloud, App Store and iMessage.
- Security concerns because it indicates that someone with no authority tried to access your account.
How to Unlock Apple ID?
So, your Apple ID is disabled, and you are wondering how to unlock Apple ID? Fortunately, unlocking this account is as easy as going to the iForgot Apple ID website. Once the website has opened, enter your Apple ID and type in the CAPTCHA code. Press Continue. Then, you will be presented with a few options to unlock your account.
If you have two-factor authentication enabled on your account, you will receive a special recovery code on your trusted device.
If 2FA is not enabled, you can unlock your Apple ID account by answering a few security questions or using your password. You can change your password if you don’t remember it. Ensure you have access to your email address associated with the Apple ID account.
How to Prevent your Apple ID from Being Disabled or Locked?
If you don’t want to be in a sticky situation where your Apple ID is locked, and you are unable to access your essential data, you must take the following preventive measures:
- Ensure to use a unique and strong password: The password for your Apple ID account must be strong so nobody can crack it. Avoid using common words, numbers and personal information as passwords.
- Enable 2FA: Add an extra layer of security by enabling two-factor authentication. This is a secondary verification method that will send a one-time, unique code to your trusted device. So, if anybody cracks your password, they won’t be able to get their hands on this one-time code.
- Use a password manager: If you don’t want to be locked out of your account because you have forgotten the password, use a password manager. Password managers help generate, store, and manage passwords for Apple ID and other accounts.
- Do not share your password: You must not share your Apple ID password, as this enhances the risk of potential locks and unauthorized access.
- Set account recovery options: It is best to make arrangements for future eventualities. You must set up account recovery options, such as adding a trusted email address or phone number, etc.
- Protect against malware: Use a powerful antivirus solution that will protect the security of your Apple ID. The software will be able to quickly detect malicious actors trying to compromise your account’s safety.
- Update the system regularly: If your system is not updated regularly, there will be vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can easily exploit. So, keep the system up-to-date to utilize the latest security patches and enhancements.
Additionally, you must exercise caution when granting access to third-party software, especially the ones requesting to access your Apple ID credentials. If the apps are not trustworthy, do not grant them access.
Summing Up
Apple ID locks are way more common than you think. By knowing how to prevent your account from getting locked, you will be able to eliminate bottlenecks in your workflow. As already mentioned, a disabled Apple ID account means losing access to important data and not being able to access applications related to the ID.
For an uninterrupted computing experience, you must prevent your account from getting locked.
