Before you spend $40+ on a license, try using Apple's own recovery process. If that fails, LockWiper is a reliable "Plan B." Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. You should only use unlocking software on devices you own or have explicit permission to modify.

The process takes about 10–20 minutes. For a tool that saves you a trip to the Apple Store, that’s fast. The Bad: The Fine Print Warning: This is a "Factory Reset" LockWiper does not "crack" your passcode to reveal the numbers. Instead, it wipes the encrypted data so the lock disappears. This means you will lose all data on the iPhone unless you have a recent iCloud or iTunes backup.

You cannot use LockWiper to unlock a spouse’s phone to check their messages. You cannot use it to unlock a stolen phone. The software requires you to place the phone into Recovery Mode or DFU Mode (which wipes the device), making it useless for snooping.

If your child played with your phone and locked it permanently, or if the screen is broken and ghost-touching wrong passcodes, LockWiper can force the device into Recovery Mode and wipe the lock.

If you are locked out of your own device, the panic is real. You don’t want to lose your photos, contacts, and notes.

We’ve all been there. That sinking feeling when you enter your passcode incorrectly, only to see "iPhone is Disabled, Connect to iTunes." Or perhaps you bought a used iPad online, only to find that the seller forgot to turn off "Find My iPhone."