iCloud is a cloud storage service on iPhones and iPads provided by Apple to each iPhone user. Users typically sign up for iCloud, using this account to synchronize data between their devices via the cloud. This means that if you use an iPhone, contacts, calendar events, photos, notes, documents, and more on your device can be uploaded to Apple's servers, allowing users to access this data from a Mac, iPad, and even another iPhone from anywhere, anytime.
Check iCloud, Check Hidden iCloud, Verify iCloud on iPhone
However, if you buy a used iPhone/iPad without thoroughly checking its iCloud status, you may end up with a device stuck with hidden iCloud. Hidden iCloud is a type of iCloud that still has the Activation Lock activated on Apple's servers, but the iDevice itself has been completely removed from it. Although you can still use the device normally, if you restore it, the iPhone/iPad will become a 'brick' and you will lose access to your iCloud account and any functionalities. Even though there are shops claiming to unlock iCloud, their prices are not cheap and the success rate is never 100%. While you can log in with a new iCloud account and freely upgrade the software, you cannot restore factory settings or restore the device because the old iCloud is still stored on Apple's servers. Therefore, if you are planning to buy a used iPhone or iPad, you should follow effective ways to check iCloud, test hidden iCloud on iPhone/iPad as mentioned in the article below.
Method 1: Perform directly on the device.
1.1. For non-jailbroken iPhone or iPad.
1.2. For jailbroken iPhone or iPad.
Method 2: Use Apple's online tools.
Check iCloud, Test Hidden iCloud on iPhone 11, 8, 8 Plus
Method 1: Perform directly on the device
1.1. For non-jailbroken iPhone or iPad.
1.2. For jailbroken iPhone or iPad.
Copy the Lockdown folder to another location and then delete it (It is recommended to use a computer to perform this backup). Then restart your iPhone or iPad, if it works normally, it is not iCloud locked.
Method 2: Use Apple's online tools
Using iCloud with multiple accounts, it's advisable to regularly change your iCloud password, replacing the current password with a more difficult-to-detect one. Changing your iCloud password helps secure your account and prevents forgetting your iCloud password.