"Security Lockout": The New Name for "iPhone Disabled"
Enter the wrong passcode 10 times, and your iPhone locks up. In 2026, you don't always need a computer to fix this, thanks to the new Security Lockout screen.
The "Erase iPhone" Button (iOS 15.2+)
If your device is connected to Wi-Fi or Cellular, look at the bottom right corner of the "Lockout" screen. You should see "Erase iPhone".
- Tap "Erase iPhone".
- Enter your Apple ID Password (Crucial step).
- The phone will factory reset itself.
No "Erase" Button? (The Hard Way)
If the button isn't there (no internet connection), you must use a computer:
- Turn off the iPhone.
- Hold the Recovery Button (Side button on iPhone X/11/12/13/14/15/16).
- Connect cable to PC while holding button.
- Use iTunes/Finder to "Restore".
Forgot Apple ID?
Check if the device has FMI ON or OFF before you erase it. If FMI is ON, you will need the password after the reset.
Check FMI StatusTechnical Glossary
DFU Mode
Device Firmware Update. A state deeper than Recovery Mode, used to reload the firmware even if the software is completely crashed.
Biometric Lockout
When FaceID/TouchID is disabled after 5 failed attempts or a restart. The numeric passcode becomes the only way to unlock.
Local Wipe
The process of deleting encryption keys on the device. Data is not overwritten, but becomes cryptographically inaccessible instantly.