This is a "partial" bypass that changes the DNS server in your Wi-Fi settings to redirect the device to a custom portal.

: If you can contact the previous owner, they can remotely remove the lock. They simply need to log in to iCloud.com/find , select the iPhone 4s, click Erase iPhone , and then click Remove from Account .

iPhone 4s iOS 9.3.6 iCloud Bypass: Free Methods & Important Warnings (2026)

For users without proof of purchase, several community-driven methods exist for legacy A5-chip devices like the iPhone 4s.

: Many legacy enthusiasts on communities like r/setupapp recommend using an Arduino board and a USB Host Shield to put the device into a "pwned DFU" mode. This allows you to delete the activation files manually.

: It does not actually unlock the phone; it only allows you to browse the web or use specific apps within a simulated interface. Hardware-Based Exploits (Checkm8 & Arduino)

Because the iPhone 4s uses the A5 chip, it is vulnerable to hardware-level exploits.

Below is a comprehensive guide on the available free methods, their limitations, and the risks involved. 1. Official & Legitimate Free Methods (Recommended)

: This is a popular open-source tool used on macOS and Linux that can help "hacktivate" or downgrade the device to iOS 6.1.3, which often avoids the Activation Lock screen entirely. 3. Comparison of "Free" Tools

Several software packages claim to offer one-click bypasses for the iPhone 4s.