Apple launches new tool to expose stolen and locked iPhones, iPads

PanARMENIAN.Net - Apple has launched a new tool to help second-hand iPhone and iPad buyers check whether their device has in fact been stolen. The iCloud Activation Lock status tool allows IMEI or serial numbers from iOS devices to be run through Apple's database, and flag up whether the phone or tablet has previously been blocked, according to SlashGear.

"Before you purchase an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch from somebody else," Apple writes of the new site, "make sure that Find My iPhone Activation Lock is turned off and the device is ready for you to use."

Activation Lock is a part of iCloud; if the iPhone or iPad is misplaced, or stolen, the owner can remotely lock it so that a new user cannot activate it themselves.

Intended to make stealing iOS devices less appealing, it has also prompted a battle with thieves and hackers to make suspect gadgets look legitimate for at least as long as it takes for buyers on eBay and Craigslist to pay for them. A quick check in Apple's database, however, will reveal the truth, SlashGear says.