Phone Locks Explained: Network Lock, Activation Lock and FRP
The word “locked” covers very different situations. A network lock is not the same as a screen passcode, and neither is the same as an Apple Account or Google account lock. Here’s the honest version, and what each one means for selling your phone.
Headline policy. We consider network-locked phones and phones with physical or functional faults. Apple Activation Lock, Google Factory Reset Protection, MDM and other manufacturer account or ownership locks must normally be removed by the legitimate owner before purchase. PhonesForCash does not bypass security protections. Staff do not record or retain passwords. Lost, stolen or suspicious devices are not purchased.
Network lock
The phone is tied to a UK carrier (EE, O2, Vodafone, Three, Tesco, BT and similar). The handset still belongs to you. Network-locked devices may be considered — the value can differ from a fully unlocked equivalent, and UK carriers are required to unlock free of charge on request for current customers.
Screen passcode
A six-digit PIN, alphanumeric password, pattern or biometric. The legitimate owner must be able to unlock the device so staff can inspect the screen, cameras, ports and battery health, and complete the official reset. Staff will not request, record or retain the passcode.
Apple Find My / Activation Lock
An Apple Account is signed in and Find My is enabled. Apple's Activation Lock prevents anyone else activating the device. Must be removed by the legitimate owner before purchase, through official Apple methods — Settings → [Your name] → Sign Out, or iCloud.com → Find Devices → Remove from Account. PhonesForCash does not bypass Apple security.
Google Factory Reset Protection (FRP)
After a factory reset, Android asks for the previously associated Google account before setup can finish. Must be cleared by the legitimate owner using the original Google credentials or an official manufacturer-supported process before the device can be purchased.
Samsung, Xiaomi, OPPO, HUAWEI and other manufacturer accounts
Some manufacturers add their own account on top of the Google or Apple layer (Samsung account, Mi/Xiaomi account, HEYTAP, HUAWEI ID, etc.). These must be officially signed out by the legitimate owner before purchase.
MDM / corporate management
Mobile Device Management profiles installed by a workplace, school or carrier. They cannot be removed without the original organisation's official action. The phone must be released through the issuing organisation's MDM console before sale.
Outstanding finance / contract
If the phone is still part of an active finance agreement (Apple iPhone Upgrade, Samsung Financial Services, EE/O2/Vodafone monthly device plans), it cannot be sold until the finance is settled and the contract closed. Bring the closure letter or PAC receipt if you have one.
Lost or stolen status
Devices reported lost or stolen, or flagged by CheckMEND, will not be purchased under any circumstances. Every handset is IMEI-checked at the counter before payment is issued.
Frequently asked
Do you buy iCloud-locked iPhones?
No. An iPhone with Find My / Activation Lock still active cannot normally be purchased as a working device. The legitimate owner must remove the device from their Apple Account through official methods first. We can guide a verified owner through the steps but do not bypass Apple security.
Do you buy FRP-locked Android phones?
No. Google Factory Reset Protection must be cleared by the legitimate owner using the previously associated Google account or an official manufacturer-supported process before the device can be purchased.
Do you buy network-locked phones?
Network-locked phones may be considered. Disclose the network and the lock status when you ask for a valuation — the offer can differ from a fully unlocked equivalent.
Can you bypass Activation Lock, FRP, MDM or a forgotten password?
No. PhonesForCash does not provide or recommend unauthorised bypass services for any device. We can help a verified owner walk through the official removal steps with their own credentials.
What if my phone is on finance?
It cannot be purchased until the finance is settled and the contract closed with the carrier or finance provider. Once cleared, bring the settlement confirmation with you.
Not sure which lock type you have?
Send us a quick message describing the situation and we’ll tell you what’s needed before you travel in.