In that rabbit hole, you’ve likely seen them: ads for software called “Apple ID Extractor,” “iCloud Bypass Tools,” or “Full Account Pullers.”

If you’ve ever been locked out of an old Apple ID, bought a second-hand iPhone that’s still linked to a previous owner, or simply forgotten your password, you’ve probably gone down a dark rabbit hole of YouTube tutorials and forum threads.

These tools prey on desperation. They don’t unlock iPhones; they unlock your wallet for scammers and your data for hackers.