Apple has added the ability to check device Activation Lock Status to iCloud, enabling users to check if a second-hand iPhone, iPad or iPod touch is ready for use by checking its Activation Lock status.
Activation Lock is designed to protect stolen iOS devices and is enabled when you switch on Find My iPhone and prevents anyone from switching off Find My iPhone, erasing your data, or using your phone without first obtaining your Apple ID and password and unlocking the device with Apple.
The idea behind it is that by “locking” your device, you render it useless to anyone who finds it (or steals it). This increases your chances of getting it back and discourages others from stealing your expensive device.
The problem with buying anything second-hand from a third party is that you don’ know where it came from and you risk getting scammed.
This new feature on iCloud should help cut down on the number of people throwing hundreds of dollars away on stolen devices that won’t work when they try to switch it on.
