HT204152 Apple ID Disabled & Lost Recovery Key (Two-Step Verification)

If you use Two-Step Verification:
If your Apple ID is disabled "for security reasons" AND you lost your Recovery Key ALL HOPE IS NOT LOST! Speaking from a recent, nearly devastating experience, I hopefully will provide some relief to others in the same boat...
After speaking to several customer service representatives who basically told me that without the recovery key, there was no way to access my account and everything would be lost forever, I finally spoke with a senior customer service representative that actually understood my issue (most thought I just forgot my password).
As it turns out, my account was locked due to too many incorrect PW attempts (not exactly sure how that happened). I was prompted to go to appleid.apple.com and when trying to log in, prompted to enter my Recovery Key. I couldn't get further than that. What I didn't realize and the other reps didn't tell me was after 8 hours, the account is unlocked. I was then able to log in at applied.apple.com and verify my account using a trusted device. I was then able to create a new recovery key (and print it out and put copies everywhere so this wouldn't happen again!).
Lessons Learned: 1. Don't lose the Recovery Key again! 2. When talking to Apple Customer Service, ask to speak with a senior customer service representative. 3. Wait 8 hours without trying to log in and your Apple ID is unlocked again.

we all have had unsatisfactory results with entry level CS techs. Your advice to be assertive about speaking with a Senior Tech is sound and where I have ALWAYS found satsifaction. Methinks the proprietary Customer Service Knowledge Base may be running the same software as our forums - Terrible searching is a rule here. - the other two suggestions are very good as well - ÇÇÇ

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Locked out of Apple ID AND lost Recovery Key for two-step verification

Hey guys,
Firstly, as the title implies, this is a double-whammy of a problem, and obviously, it is very much my fault. The reason I'm bothering to post this, however, is to find out if anyone else has had this issue and where they are at with it.
The story:
I set up two-step verification on my Apple ID about a year ago as I thought it was a good idea. I wrote the Recovery Key down as it told you to, and put it in a folder full of other important documents. In a epic mental lapse, however, I now remember later throwing out that folder, forgetting about my Recovery Key. Ya, that is my fault, I'm and idiot. Anyways...
Fast forward to a few days ago, and I all of a sudden received messages on all my devices saying that my Apple ID had been disabled for security reasons, and that I had to reset the account in order to regain access to it. Scary, but no problem, right? Well, after entering my Apple ID into iForgot.com, the first thing it asked me for was my Recovery Key. This is around the time I was banging my head against the wall in realization that I had thrown it away, but I was relieved to see the "Lost your Recovery Key?" option at the bottom of the screen. I was even more relieved to discover that I had what I needed to reset it: my current password and a trusted Apple device. The catch was that to reset it, I needed to log into my Apple ID to initiate it, which of course I couldn't do because it had been disabled, and the only way for me to disable it is, again, to enter in my Recovery Key. This effectively put me in and endless loop, without any apparent way of gaining accesses to my account. I did contact Apple about it, and I was ultimately told that the lock on my account was so tight, that not even Apple could gain access to it.
I understand that this level of security is probably the whole reason for the two-step verification in the first place, and I again concede that it was extremely foolish of me for forgetting about and discarding my Recovery Key, but a few things still don't make sense...
1. Why would they put a "Lost your Recovery Key?" link on the password recovery page when a password is needed to reset the Recovery Key itself?
2. As far as I can remember, Apple, in their briefing of how two-step verification works, did not bring up this scenario, which is probably relatively common. They DO mention that they can't help when you don't have access to two of the three necessary things for recovery, but they never brought up the apparent exception of if the account is disabled, in which case having two of the three things needed is not enough. I don't understand how they couldn't have mentioned this scenario.
3. Given the above thought, how could Apple not have some sort of special contingency for this type of situation? I profess my ignorance of how these types of systems are set up, but I would feel that there should be a special method for recovery in place if the account has been locked, and the owner is able to verify that they have the password and trusted devices.
I didn't mean to make it sound like a rant. I ADORE Apple, but this system seems like it's less than perfect.
Has anyone else ran into this issue? If so, is your situation similar to mine?
Thanks for any response!

Hey everyone.
It's been awhile, but I wanted to share with anyone who is interested some general knowledge about this issue that I have learned while communicating with Apple support. Unsurprisingly, the issue is still unresolved, and I am under the impression that it will remain that way, but I'm still trying to get in touch with one of the senior representatives I spoke with a while ago who seemed to think that there might be a solution, so I suppose there is still a chance that things could turn out for the better.
Here's the rundown:
Anytime you are unable to sign in to or access your account because of "security reasons", your account is under what is called a "DS Lockout".
A DS Lockout on an Apple ID can be triggered for a few reasons, such as when too many failed logins to the Apple ID (using an incorrect password) are attempted, or when a purchase is made that Apple believes to be fraudulent.
Under normal circumstances, a DS Lockout only lasts for 8 hours, after which the lock is lifted and access to the account by inputting the correct password is re-enabled.
This is where the catch for anybody who set up two-step verification is.
According to one of Apple's security representatives, IF you have two-step verification enabled upon being inflicted with a DS Lockout, the 8-hour lockout period is extended indefinitely as an additional security measure (a feature, I suppose). Therefore, the only way to regain access to the account is by resetting the password, as waiting for the lockout to expire is no longer an option. And of course, resetting your password, as stated by Apple, is one of the situations in which you need your Recovery Key. EVEN IF YOU KNOW WHAT THE ACCOUNT'S CURRENT PASSWORD IS, the lockout prevents you from being able to input it as a means of authentication. You MUST reset your password in order to regain access, and you MUST input your recovery key in order to reset your password.
So, that seems to be the gist of it. It does make sense, but here's my problem:
Upon setting up two-step verification, Apple does warn you of many things, but they do not make any mention of this specific scenario. Indeed, it is very much my fault for loosing my verification key, but the thing is, I’m human, I make mistakes, and I know that I will continue to do so. One of the reasons I chose to take the risk of setting up two-step verification is because Apple explicitly stated that as long as I had access to two of the three required "keys" -- my Recovery Key, my password, and at least one of my trusted Apple devices -- I would always be able to gain access to my account. In other words, as long as I didn’t screw up so bad as to loose access to two of my keys, I’d be okay. Obviously, there is a huge exception to this case that, again, is not mentioned anywhere, hence all the confusion. Had I know that it was possible that it could come down to me needing a single, specific key to regain access to my account, I probably would have opted out of two-step verification, recognizing that as a busy college student who's constantly reorganizing and dealing with tons of forms, worksheets, and other various documents, it's not as easy to hold on to a slip of paper as it might be for others. I'm hoping that at some point, Apple adds a big, red warning to the setup process which reads something like:
"In the event that your Apple ID is locked due to a detected security risk, your Recovery key will be necessary to regaining access to your account; knowing your password and/or having access to any of your trusted devices will no longer be enough."
I really do appreciate how seriously Apple takes its security, but I think that there is still room for improvement. This should start with more clearly and fully stating the conditions of its security measures, as well as having its customer support be more educated on these conditions (they themselves stated that they had never been trained on issues revolving around two-step verification). Protecting someone's private information is important, but so too is making every possible effort to ensure that customers can't easily loose access to all the content and services that they have spent much time and money building up and using.
As stated above, I'm still trying to get a hold of the Apple representative who initially assisted me, so if I have any additional updates, I'll be sure to reply to this thread. I hope that anyone who is going through the same issue, or is simply curious, finds this information to be useful.

Ios8 upgrade with two step verification

I have and iPhone 5 and two step verification in place. When I first upgraded to iOS 8 the upgrade process asked for my verification number. I first chose iPhone, but I did not get a code. I then went back and selected SMS to the phone number that I was upgrading. Then the upgrade went though without me entering anything. I'm assuming that iOS 8 just read my SMS message and went through with the upgrade. I'm about to do the same with my daughter's (she has her own Apple ID and two step verification) iPhone 4s and I assume that it will work the same way?
I could not find any detailed information on Apple's web site pertaining to this.

Hi Les,
If you've been asked to wait, I would try going back through the process to start two-step verification as described here:
Apple ID: Frequently asked questions about two-step verification for Apple ID
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5570
Set up two-step verification at My Apple ID (appleid.apple.com):
Select "Manage your Apple ID" and sign in.
Select "Password and Security."
Under Two-Step Verification, select Get Started and follow the onscreen instructions.
That article also explains why you had to wait, in case you were at all curious:
Why was I asked to wait before setting up two-step verification?
As a basic security measure, Apple does not allow two-step verification setup to proceed if any significant changes have recently been made to your account information. Significant changes can include a password reset or new security questions. This waiting period helps Apple ensure that you are the only person accessing or modifying your account. While you are in this waiting period, you can continue using your account as usual with all Apple services and stores.
Apple will send an email to all the addresses you have on file notifying you of the waiting period and encouraging you to contact Apple Support if you think that someone else has unauthorized access to your account. You will be able to return to set up two-step verification after the date listed on your Apple ID account page and in the email that you receive.
Note: When your waiting period is over, you will have 30 days to complete two-step verification setup. If you attempt to complete setup after 30 days have passed or if you have made significant changes to your account during that time, another waiting period may be triggered.
Take care, Les!
- Ari

HT5576 When I go to the password and security, there is no Select "Start" under the words "two-step verification" and follow the instructions on the screen

When I go to the password and security, there is no Select "Start" under the words "two-step verification" and follow the instructions on the screen

Hey Podducbnov,
Thanks for the question. It sounds like you are trying to setup Two-Step Verification. After logging into http://appleid.apple.com, click "Password & Security". At this time you will probably be prompted to answer your security questions, go ahead and do so. Afterwards, the top section has a "Get started…" link to setup Two-Step Verification:
Apple ID: Frequently asked questions about two-step verification for Apple ID
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5570
Thanks,
Matt M.

HT6170 lost password id apple and lost recovery key

I lost password id apple and lost recovery key,how to reset my password

Do you have another trusted device for two-step verification?
See: Frequently asked questions about two-step verification for Apple ID
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5570
What if I lose my Recovery Key?
If you lose your Recovery Key, you can replace it any time:
Go to My Apple ID.
Select Manage your Apple ID and sign in with your password and trusted device.
Select Password and Security.
Under Recovery Key, select Replace Lost Key.
When you create a new key, your old Recovery Key is no longer usable.
and
What if I forget my Apple ID password?
You can reset it at My Apple ID using your Recovery Key and one of your trusted devices.
Apple Support can't reset your password for you. To reset your password, you must have your Recovery Key and access to at least one of your trusted devices.
if you have neither your AppleID password, nor your Recovery Key, nor a trusted device, not even Apple can help you to get access to your account.

HT5577 how do you sign in to apple id to make changes if you lost recovery key..

how do you sign in to apple id to make changes if you lost recovery key and removed one of my trusted devices they are both still associated but only one is trusted my macbook pro is still trusted but neither it or the 5c can get pass the log in section where it asks for the recovery key!!!!!!!!
<Edited By Host>

Going to need a lot more info on what your are trying to do and why you are doing it.
Signing into an Apple ID is easy. Open whatever needs and Apple ID and sign in using the ID name, usually a email address, and the password associated with that name. you will then be signed in.
And please refrain from the profanity.

HT5577 I lost recovery key and trusted device, how do I rescue my funds on account?

Lost recovery key and trusted dev, and need to transfer balance on account how do I do this?

You will need one of your trusted devices to be able to change your password : Apple ID: Can't sign in with two-step verification - Apple Support
Nobody else should be able to download from a new device or computer unless they have access to two of your password, a trusted device, and your recovery key. You are sure that they are using it e.g. there are a number of phishing emails doing the rounds saying that something has been downloaded on an account and to click on a link in the email if it wasn't you that made it so as to request a refund (i.e. so that they can capture your password and payment details).
If they are 'proper' purchases then you can try contacting iTunes Support : http://www.apple.com/support/itunes/contact/ - click on Contact iTunes Store Support on the right-hand side of the page

Lost recovery key and no acces to trusted devices

i lost my recovery key and I can't get acces to my trusted devices, there's much money on the account but some else is using the account wich I don't know, an I want to change the pw but I cant

You will need one of your trusted devices to be able to change your password : Apple ID: Can't sign in with two-step verification - Apple Support
Nobody else should be able to download from a new device or computer unless they have access to two of your password, a trusted device, and your recovery key. You are sure that they are using it e.g. there are a number of phishing emails doing the rounds saying that something has been downloaded on an account and to click on a link in the email if it wasn't you that made it so as to request a refund (i.e. so that they can capture your password and payment details).
If they are 'proper' purchases then you can try contacting iTunes Support : http://www.apple.com/support/itunes/contact/ - click on Contact iTunes Store Support on the right-hand side of the page

HT5577 Devices and Recovery ID stolen. Unable to access account with two-step verification. Apple does not care. What can I do?

Last year, my backpack containing my laptop and phone were stolen. My Recovery Key was saved as a screenshot on the laptop and on the phone and I have no other copy. I remotely wiped both devices. I had no insurance for such circumstances and replaced them at my own expense but I cannot access my AppleID account because Two-Step Verification is active and my old telephone number was replaced and I no longer have access to it. I can live with losing the devices as a result of my own stupidity, but Apple claims they are unable to restore my access to my old account in spite of the special circumstances. Apple can confirm my identity via my bank details and my email address but they do not seem to care. I've lost access to my music, software, calendars etc. I have a new AppleID - I had no other option but to set one up - but it irks me that Apple is unwilling to transfer purchases made on my old AppleID to my new one. I am considering taking legal action to regain my purchases and wonder if anybody else has found themselves in a similar situation.

If apple tracked deviced they sold they would be violating a great number of privicy laws and would face class action and criminal lawsuits in most of the western countries

I didn't setup a two step verification for my apple Id , and then when i login into my account on the browser it prompt to enter my verification code !!! HOW COME

i didn't setup a two step verification for my apple Id , and then when i login into my account on the browser it prompt to enter my verification code !!! HOW COME
please help because all my data are stored in the cloud

- See if it is listed here for downloading. If it is then redownload it..
Downloading past purchases from the App Store, iBookstore, and iTunes Store
- If not there then contact iTunes.
Contact iTunes

Can I setup two-step verification for more than one Apple ID?

I have one iPad and one iPhone.
I have four Apple IDs.
I want to setup two-step verification in all four accounts.
Can I?
It seems that I can't, because to add a "trusted device" to an Apple ID requires setting up Find My iPhone on that device. Find My iPhone requires an iCloud account (which is available with every Apple ID). But once you change the iCloud account account used for Find My iPhone on a device, the device will not be able to be used in two-step verification for the previous iCloud account. Or will it get remembered?
Anyone have any knowledge about this?

You should be able to have more than account authorised on your Mac's iTunes via the Store > Authorise This Computer menu option - and you should be able to select and sync purchases from both accounts to your phones

HT202656 verification code not sent to my iPhone (Sprint) for two-step verification for apple id

I have tried to set up two-step verification several times using iCloud, first my iMac and then, when that didn't work, on my iPhone, all to no avail. I followed the instructions up to and including the step where the message says I will receive an SMS on my iPhone with a verification code. I never received the message with the verification code.
I am using Sprint as my internet provider and working with an iMac with Mavericks 10.9.5 as the operating system and iPhone 6 with IOS 8.2

Hey dagored,
Thanks for the question. I would recommend completing the two-step verification process and then changing the SMS number associated once you upgrade:
Apple ID: About two-step verification and SMS
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5593
Or you can opt to complete the process and then turn two-step verification off completely:
Frequently asked questions about two-step verification for Apple ID
http://support.apple.com/kb/ht5570
Thanks,
Matt M.

Two-step verification code from apple

Hi, I've been trying to setup again the "two step verification security code" from Apple and they request that I add a telephone number for verification, to which they send a SMS with the 4 digit code when I try to access/change my contact details from apple/icloud to verify it's me and not somebody else. I've run into problems with my two meteor numbers. The text is never received from apple even though the network is listed as one that is able to receive texts from Apple. https://support.apple.com/en-ie/HT202656 I have no problem setting up the two step verification procedure if I add another mobile number I have from the Three network. The verification codes are received. But, I don't want to have to use that number as I hardly have it with me. Is this a known issue with meteor? It used to work when I was with emobile? I used to get the texts. But, then they stopped coming. It is also affecting my Apple Pay. I have UK cards which I have added to my phone, but Apple has to verify my nymber through text. They send the text, but I never receive it. (it is not an imessage, by the way. iMessage works perfectly). They have to be proper mobile messages (SMS) for the verification process, but I only run into issues with the meteor network. Is there a filter setup somewhere that stops Apple from delivering their messages to Meteor customers? It happens in my two numbers. Thank you so much for your help.Dani

I had this yesterday as well. I discovered that it was because I had changed the app restrictions on my iPad to 12+ from Allow All Apps. I don't know if this helps in your case, but it seems that access to the device app that controls the AppleID is required on verified devices.
The email is unhelpful - it would be better if it said a bit more about why devices may cease to be trusted.
J

I want to disable two step verification on my iphone

I am unable to use Chrome or Mail on my iphone because when I enter the code given for two step verification, it is not accepted. My phone is set to the correct time. I cannot get into settings without the verification code.

For what it's worth:
WARNING: If you use iTunes to sync photos between your iPhone or iPad and your Mac do not activate the iCloud Drive. Doing so will kill the capability of using iTunes to sync with your mobile device and disable Documents & Data syncing for your iCloud account on OS X Mavericks and earlier Macs, as well as iOS 7 and earlier devices.

I have forgotten my security questions for my apple ID there was no link to reset questions nor was their a section for the two-step Verification. What do I do?

i have forgotten my apple ID security questions the is no link to send to my rescue email nor is the a section for the two-step verification method. What do I do??

Alternatives for Help Resetting Security Questions and/or Rescue Mail
     1. If you have a rescue email address or a Security Questions issue, then see:
         If you forgot the answers to your Apple ID security questions - Apple Support.
         Manage your Apple ID primary, rescue, alternate, and notification email addresses - Apple Support
     2. Fill out and submit this form. Select the topic, Account Security. You must
         have a Rescue Email to use this option.
     3. This is the only option if you do not already have a valid Rescue Email.
         These are telephone numbers for contacting Apple Support in your country.
         Apple ID- Contacting Apple for help with Apple ID account security. Select
         the appropriate country and call. Ask to speak to the Account Security Team.
     4. Account security issues almost always require you to speak directly to an
         Apple representative to securely establish your identity as the account holder.
         You can set it up so that Apple calls you, either immediately or at a time
         convenient to you.
            1. Go to www.apple.com/support.
            2. Choose Contact Support and click Contact Us.
            3. Choose Other Apple ID Topics and choose the appropriate topic for
                your issue.
            4. Follow the onscreen instructions.
         Note: If you have already forgotten your security questions, then you cannot
         set up a rescue email address in order to reset them. You must set up
         the rescue email address beforehand.
Your Apple ID: Manage My Apple ID.
                        Apple ID- All about Apple ID security questions.

HT204152 Apple ID Disabled & Lost Recovery Key (Two-Step Verification)

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