Hi all, I’m managing a few iOS devices and tried clearing the device passcode remotely, but I keep getting this error: “The passcode cannot be cleared (-1)”. Has anyone faced this before? Not sure what’s blocking it.
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Replies (6)
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Hexnode Expert
3 weeks ago
Apr 09, 2026
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Hi @pauel,
This error is triggered by iOS security restrictions. Remote passcode clearing is blocked in scenarios such as:
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When Stolen Device Protection is enabled.
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When the device has been restarted and not unlocked at least once.
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When the device is in a secured state that requires local authentication.
These are built-in protections from Apple to prevent unauthorized access. Because of this, UEM commands like passcode clear will fail with the error you’re seeing.
At this point, the only reliable way forward is to wipe the device and set it up again.
Best Regards,
Isabel Lora
Hexnode UEM
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Participant
3 weeks ago
Apr 09, 2026
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Got it, thanks for the clarification, @isabel_lora.
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Participant
2 weeks ago
Apr 13, 2026
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Hey everyone, I’m back again 😅
I wiped the device thinking that would fix things, but now it’s stuck on the Activation Lock screen, and I can’t get past it. Not sure what to do next—any ideas?
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Participant
2 weeks ago
Apr 13, 2026
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Ah okay, that usually means Activation Lock is still enabled on the device. You’ll need to go into Apple Business Manager and turn off Activation Lock for that device. Once that’s done, you should be able to continue the setup.
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Hexnode Expert
2 weeks ago
Apr 13, 2026
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Hi @pauel,
@smedt is correct. If the device is showing the Activation Lock screen, you have two options:
1. Disable Activation Lock via Apple Business Manager (ABM)
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Locate the device in ABM
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Turn off Activation Lock
2. Use the Activation Lock Bypass Code from Hexnode UEM
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Navigate to the device in the Hexnode UEM portal.
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Find the Activation Lock Bypass Code under device details.
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Enter this code on the device to unlock it.
Both methods allow you to regain access without needing the original Apple ID credentials.
Best Regards,
Isabel Lora
Hexnode UEM
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Participant
2 weeks ago
Apr 14, 2026
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That worked! I disabled Activation Lock from Apple Business Manager and was able to access the device again. Thanks everyone for the help 🙌
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