In this KB, we will share simple steps to erase cloud (FMIP) locked iPhones.
Apple iPhones are known the world over for their formidable security features and exceptional performance making them a highly desirable smartphone brand. As newer iPhone models are unveiled, older models end up in the second-hand device market or they are being disposed of or recycled. However, it is of critical importance to ensure that no sensitive or private data is left behind on these devices to ensure data confidentiality to safeguard privacy.
To erase all sensitive data from iPhones you need to use a certified data wiping software- BitRaser Mobile Eraser and Diagnostics. The software helps you erase data from all makes and models of iPhones like iPhone 15, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro, etc., and iPad®. You can refer to our guide to Wipe iPhone & iPad Devices. However, if you want to erase cloud (FMIP) locked iPhones, then it is important to understand what is FMIP and how BitRaser Mobile can help wipe FMIP-locked iPhones.
What is FMIP?
FMIP (Find My iPhone) is an iOS-exclusive feature that helps you track, find, and erase your lost iPhone. It is a comprehensive security feature that is designed to protect iOS devices and make it harder for any unauthorized person to use it, thus providing peace of mind to iPhone users.
It is quite common for second-hand mobile resellers and mobile refurbishers to encounter situations where the iPhones they possess are cloud (FMIP) locked or the user has forgotten the password. In these situations, it is important to know how you can wipe a cloud (FMIP) locked iPhone using BitRaser. However, one must remember that the phone FMIP lock will not be removed. To unlock the phone and use it you must know the FMIP password.
Disclaimer:
Erasing your FMIP or Cloud locked iPhone with BitRaser will only erase the data on the iPhone (iOS device), it DOES NOT REMOVE the FMIP lock nor will it remove the Apple ID from the device.
How to Wipe Cloud (FMIP) Locked iPhone with BitRaser?
You can install the BitRaser application on your machine (PC, Laptop) using the below-illustrated steps:
- Download the BitRaser Mobile Application from the BitRaser Cloud Server.
- Install the Application using instructions received by mail post-purchase.
- Connect the Application to BitRaser Cloud to download Mobile licenses.
Install and launch the application, then follow the below steps:
Step 1: Connect FMIP-locked iPhone to the host machine and put it in the ‘Recovery Mode’.
Note: The steps to access recovery mode may vary according to your device model. Visit the Apple official site to find out how to put your iPhone in recovery mode if you forget your passcode.
The host machine must have the latest version of iTunes installed on it. When your iPhone is in recovery mode the screen will look like the below image.
(Refer to Image 1)
Image 1: iPhone in Recovery Mode
The connected iPhone is now visible in the BitRaser Mobile application, now you can begin the process to erase the FMIP-locked iPhone.
(Refer to Image 2)
Image 2: FMIP Locked iPhone on BitRaser Mobile
Step 2: Select the ‘Erasure Standard’ you want to use for erasing the locked iPhone. The erasure standard must be chosen wisely basis your company’s data destruction policy.
You have the option to choose from 10 international standards like NIST 800-88 Clear, DoD 5220.22, British HMG IS5, and more. We have selected NIST Clear as the Data Wiping standard.
Step 3: Select the iPhone by clicking on the checkmark and then click on ‘Start’.
You will see a warning box with the message, “This process will erase all data on the device beyond recovery. Please do not disconnect device during process.”
Click ‘Proceed’. (Refer to Image 3)
Image 3: Click Start then Click Proceed
The application will first download the firmware for your iOS device. (Refer to Image 4)
Image 4: Firmware Restoration for iPhone
Once the firmware installation is completed, the software will automatically begin the erasure process. (Refer to Image 5)
Image 5: Erasing FMIP Locked iPhone Progress Screen
Once the process is completed, you have erased your FMIP-locked iPhone successfully. The procedure for erasing different models of iPhone remains the same, only the method to go to recovery mode changes.
(Refer to Image 6)
Image 6: FMIP Locked iPhone Erasure Completed