Have you ever found yourself locked out of your iPhone or iPad due to a forgotten Screen Time passcode? It’s a frustrating experience, especially if you have important data or apps that you need to access. The good news is that there are several ways to bypass the Screen Time passcode, without losing any of your data. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to do it. However, it’s important to note that these methods may not work on all devices or iOS versions, so you may need to try a few different ones before you find one that works for you. Additionally, if you’re concerned about the security of your device, we recommend that you change your Screen Time passcode to a more secure one once you’ve regained access.
One of the simplest ways to bypass the Screen Time passcode is to use a computer. If you have a Mac, you can use the Finder app to connect to your device and reset the passcode. If you have a Windows PC, you can use iTunes to do the same thing. Once you’ve connected your device to your computer, open the appropriate app and select your device from the list. Then, click on the “Summary” tab and scroll down to the “Screen Time” section. Here, you’ll see an option to “Reset Screen Time Passcode.” Click on this option and follow the prompts to reset the passcode. Once you’ve done this, you’ll be able to access your device without entering a passcode.
Another way to bypass the Screen Time passcode is to use a third-party app. There are a number of different apps available that can help you to bypass the passcode, but we recommend using one that is reputable and has good reviews. Once you’ve installed the app, open it and follow the prompts to bypass the passcode. Once you’ve done this, you’ll be able to access your device without entering a passcode. However, it’s important to note that some of these apps may require you to pay a fee in order to use them.
Understanding Screen Time Restrictions
Screen Time is a feature in Apple devices that allows parents and guardians to set limits on the amount of time their children spend on specific apps and websites. It also allows them to set time limits for overall screen use, and to block access to certain types of content.
Screen Time restrictions are enforced by a passcode. This passcode is typically set by the parent or guardian when they first set up Screen Time. If a child knows the passcode, they can easily bypass the restrictions and use their device without any limits.
There are a few ways to get around a Screen Time passcode. However, it is important to note that bypassing Screen Time restrictions without the parent’s or guardian’s permission is against Apple’s terms of service.
If you are a parent or guardian who is concerned about your child’s screen time habits, you should talk to them about the importance of setting limits and following the rules. You can also use Screen Time to set limits and block access to certain content.
Identifying Common Passcode Types
Numerical Passcodes
Numerical passcodes are the most straightforward type, consisting solely of numbers. They are typically four or six digits long and can include repeating sequences. Numerical passcodes are relatively easy to remember and input, but they offer less security than longer or more complex passcodes.
Types of Numerical Passcodes
| Passcode Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Four-digit pin | A four-digit numerical code, commonly used for unlocking phones or credit cards. |
| Six-digit pin | A six-digit numerical code, providing more security than a four-digit pin. |
| Repeated sequences | Numerical passcodes that include repeating sequences, such as “1234” or “4444,” are less secure than random sequences. |
Alphabetical Passcodes
Alphabetical passcodes consist solely of letters. They are typically longer than numerical passcodes, ranging from six to eight characters. Alphabetical passcodes can include both uppercase and lowercase letters, providing a wider range of possible combinations. However, they can be more difficult to remember and input than numerical passcodes.
Alphanumeric Passcodes
Alphanumeric passcodes combine numbers and letters, offering the highest level of security. They can range in length from eight to sixteen characters and can include special characters such as symbols or punctuation. Alphanumeric passcodes are the most difficult to crack, but they can also be the most challenging to remember and input.
Resetting Passcodes via Restrictions
Another method to bypass Screen Time passcode involves resetting it through Restrictions.
Steps to Reset Screen Time Passcode via Restrictions:
- Go to “Settings” on your device.
- Select “General” and then tap on “Restrictions.”
- Enter the existing Restrictions passcode. If you don’t remember the Restrictions passcode, follow the steps below:
- Once you have entered the Restrictions passcode, tap on “Disable Restrictions.”
- Then, tap on “Enable Restrictions” again.
- You will be prompted to set a new Restrictions passcode. Enter your desired passcode.
- Now, go to “Screen Time” and tap on “Change Screen Time Passcode.”
- Enter the new Restrictions passcode you just set.
- You can now set a new Screen Time passcode.
| Operating System | Reset Method |
|---|---|
| iOS 12 and earlier | Connect your device to a computer and use iTunes or Finder to restore your device. |
| iOS 13 and later | Erase all data and settings on your device by going to “Settings” > “General” > “Reset” > “Erase All Content and Settings.” |
Using Siri to Bypass Passcodes (iOS 11 and earlier)
If you’re running iOS 11 or earlier, you can use a Siri exploit to bypass Screen Time passcodes. Here’s how:
- Enable “Allow Siri When Locked” in Settings. This allows you to use Siri even when your phone is locked.
- Lock your device and wait for Siri to pop up.
- Ask Siri, “What time is it?”
- Tap on the clock icon that appears.
- Tap on the World Clock tab.
- Tap on the “+” button to add a new clock.
- Enter a city with a long name, like “Saint-Louis-du-Ha! Ha!.”
- Siri will try to load the city’s time zone, but the long name will cause it to crash.
- When Siri crashes, you will be taken to the home screen, bypassing the Screen Time passcode.
Note:
This exploit only works on iOS 11 and earlier. If you’re running iOS 12 or later, you will need to use a different method to bypass Screen Time passcodes.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Enable “Allow Siri When Locked” in Settings. |
| 2 | Lock your device and wait for Siri to pop up. |
| 3 | Ask Siri, “What time is it?” |
| 4 | Tap on the clock icon that appears. |
| 5 | Tap on the World Clock tab. |
| 6 | Tap on the “+” button to add a new clock. |
| 7 | Enter a city with a long name, like “Saint-Louis-du-Ha! Ha!.” |
| 8 | Siri will try to load the city’s time zone, but the long name will cause it to crash. |
| 9 | When Siri crashes, you will be taken to the home screen, bypassing the Screen Time passcode. |
Disabling Screen Time with AssistiveTouch
1. Enable AssistiveTouch
Go to Settings > Accessibility > AssistiveTouch and toggle it on.
2. Customize AssistiveTouch Menu
Tap “Customize Top Level Menu” and add “Device” to the menu.
3. Open AssistiveTouch Menu
Float the AssistiveTouch button on your screen and tap it.
4. Select “Device”
Tap “Device” in the AssistiveTouch menu.
5. Navigate to “More”
Scroll down and tap “More” for additional options.
6. Open “Screen Time”
In the “More” menu, tap “Screen Time”.
7. Disable Screen Time Limit
If a screen time limit is set, tap “Screen Time Limit” and disable it.
8. Disable Content & Privacy Restrictions
Tap “Content & Privacy Restrictions” and disable it. This will provide access to all apps and content without any restrictions.
| Restriction | Steps to Disable |
|---|---|
| App Limits | Disable individual app limits or all app limits together. |
| Communication Limits | Disable restrictions on contacts, messages, and FaceTime. |
| Location Services | Turn on location services for all apps or disable them entirely. |
| Camera & Microphone Access | Allow access to the camera and microphone for all apps or disable them. |
Recovering Device without Passcode Using Recovery Mode
Step 1: Connect the Device to a Computer
Plug your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch into a computer using a USB cable.
Step 2: Launch iTunes (Mac) or Finder (Mac with macOS Catalina 10.15 or later)
Open iTunes on your Mac or launch Finder if you’re using macOS Catalina 10.15 or later.
Step 3: Put the Device into Recovery Mode
Follow the steps below to put your device into recovery mode:
- iPhone 8 and later: Quickly press and release the Volume Up button, then quickly press and release the Volume Down button. Hold the Side button until you see the recovery mode screen.
- iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus: Press and hold both the Volume Down button and the Sleep/Wake button until you see the recovery mode screen.
- iPhone 6s and earlier: Press and hold both the Home button and the Sleep/Wake button until you see the recovery mode screen.
Step 4: Select “Restore”
In iTunes or Finder, you’ll be prompted to either "Update" or "Restore" your device. Select "Restore" to delete all data and settings, including your Screen Time passcode.
Step 5: Wait for the Process to Complete
The restore process will take some time to complete. Once it’s finished, your device will be set up as a new device.
Step 6: Set Up Your Device
Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your device as a new one. You can restore your data from a backup later if you wish.
Seeking Professional Assistance
1. Reach Out to a Family Therapist
If all else fails, consider seeking professional help from a family therapist. They can assist in identifying the underlying issues causing excessive screen time and developing strategies for navigating family dynamics around technology use.
2. Explore Support Groups
Joining a support group can provide a safe and supportive environment to share experiences, learn from others, and receive guidance from professionals.
3. Consult a Child Psychologist
A child psychologist can assess your child’s behavior and provide evidence-based interventions to address screen time addiction, underlying emotional issues, and improve overall well-being.
4. Seek Legal Advice
In extreme cases, when a child’s screen time problem becomes a legal issue, it may be necessary to seek legal advice regarding child custody or internet safety concerns.
5. Contact Your Doctor
If you suspect that your child’s screen time addiction may be related to an underlying health condition or mental illness, consulting your family doctor is crucial.
6. Access Online Resources
Numerous online resources offer information, support, and tools for families struggling with excessive screen time. Consider exploring organizations such as Common Sense Media, Screenagers, and Children and Screens.
7. Stay Informed about Technology
Keeping up with the latest technological trends and safety features can help you stay ahead of your child’s ability to bypass parental controls.
8. Model Healthy Tech Habits
Children learn by observing their parents. By modeling healthy technology use habits, you can set a positive example for your child.
9. Establish Clear Boundaries
Setting clear guidelines and expectations for screen time, usage, and consequences can help prevent conflict and foster a healthier family dynamic.
10. Foster Open Communication
Maintaining open and honest communication is essential for understanding the underlying reasons for your child’s screen time addiction and working together to address the issue. Regularly check in with your child, listen actively, and avoid judgment or punishment.
| Organization | Description |
|—|—|
| Common Sense Media | Provides resources, ratings, and reviews of media for families. |
| Screenagers | Nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth and families to use technology wisely. |
| Children and Screens | Research-based organization providing information and resources on children’s media use. |
How To Bypass Screen Time Passcode
Screen Time is a feature on Apple devices that allows parents and guardians to set limits on how much time children can spend on their devices. It can also be used to restrict access to certain apps and websites. If you’ve forgotten your Screen Time passcode, there are a few ways to bypass it.
One way to bypass the Screen Time passcode is to use a computer. Connect your device to your computer and open iTunes. Click on the “Device” tab and then click on the “Summary” tab. Under the “Restrictions” section, you will see an option to “Disable Restrictions.” Click on this option and you will be prompted to enter your device passcode. Once you have entered your device passcode, the Screen Time restrictions will be disabled.
Another way to bypass the Screen Time passcode is to use the “Erase All Content and Settings” option. This will erase all of the data on your device, including the Screen Time passcode. To do this, go to the “Settings” app and then tap on “General.” Tap on “Reset” and then tap on “Erase All Content and Settings.” You will be prompted to enter your device passcode. Once you have entered your device passcode, your device will be erased.
People Also Ask
How do I reset my Screen Time passcode?
If you have forgotten your Screen Time passcode, you can reset it by going to the “Settings” app and then tapping on “Screen Time.” Tap on “Change Screen Time Passcode” and then tap on “Forgot Passcode.” You will be prompted to enter your Apple ID password. Once you have entered your Apple ID password, you will be able to reset your Screen Time passcode.
Can I bypass the Screen Time passcode without erasing my device?
Yes, you can bypass the Screen Time passcode without erasing your device by using a computer. Connect your device to your computer and open iTunes. Click on the “Device” tab and then click on the “Summary” tab. Under the “Restrictions” section, you will see an option to “Disable Restrictions.” Click on this option and you will be prompted to enter your device passcode. Once you have entered your device passcode, the Screen Time restrictions will be disabled.
What happens if I erase my device?
If you erase your device, all of the data on your device, including the Screen Time passcode, will be erased. You will need to set up your device again from scratch.