A viral TikTok video claims to show a way to unlock an iPhone without the passcode using a clever combination of emergency call features and failed login attempts. While this may sound like a lifesaver if you’ve forgotten your passcode, it comes with serious risks — and you should think twice before trying it.
What Is the Viral TikTok iPhone Unlock Trick?
Here’s how the hack claims to work:
- Tap Emergency Call on the lock screen.
- Dial 112 (a real emergency number), then quickly press the power button.
- Double-press the power button again to reopen the emergency keypad.
- Hold the power button to trigger the “Slide to Power Off” screen.
- Tap Cancel in the top-left.
- Enter the wrong passcode six times to disable the keypad.
- Swipe up during the 1-minute timeout — and supposedly get access to the home screen.
This trick exploits how the iPhone handles emergency calls and passcode timeouts.
Does It Actually Work?
Technically? Some users say it gives them a brief window to access the home screen.
Realistically? Even if it does work under specific conditions, it’s not reliable — and Apple patches these kinds of exploits quickly.
Why It’s Not Safe (and Not Worth It)
- ❌ Dials emergency services — You could unintentionally call 911 or your country’s emergency hotline.
- ❌ Puts your device at risk — Too many failed attempts can disable your iPhone completely.
- ❌ Disables device security — A thief could potentially use this trick to bypass Find My iPhone temporarily.
- ❌ Violates Apple’s security measures — It compromises your privacy and opens your device to unauthorized access.
What About VoiceOver?
Some versions of the trick include turning on VoiceOver, a built-in screen reader. But that step isn’t actually necessary. It doesn’t give you extra access — it just confuses the interface further and adds complexity.
Better Ways to Recover iPhone Access
Before trying risky workarounds, try these safer options:
- ✅ Check iCloud Keychain or your password manager for stored passcodes.
- ✅ Use Apple ID recovery if you’ve set up a trusted device or number.
- ✅ Sync with a trusted computer using Finder (macOS) or iTunes (Windows) to unlock or back up.
- ✅ Erase and restore from backup via iCloud or Finder if you can’t recover the passcode.
- ✅ Contact Apple Support for help if Activation Lock is in place.
Bottom Line: Avoid the TikTok Hack
Yes, the TikTok trick is clever — but it’s not worth the risk. It compromises your iPhone’s security and could land you in legal or technical trouble. Stick to official recovery options to keep your device and data safe.
Let me know if you want a step-by-step for resetting a locked iPhone the right way.