Márton SalomváryJul 2, 2023
Found an iPhone with passcode and SIM PIN enabled, no ICE contacts, stuck in airplane mode. How should I return it to the owner? Any point in trying to contact Apple? Or the carrier?
Show threadMárton SalomváryJul 3, 2023

So I’ve tried posting to a local Facebook group, supposedly unmoderated, and my post got “declined” (whatever that means).

Tried contacting the carrier in Slovakia (4ka) but they speak no Languages (at least not their online chat).

This phone might become an expensive paperweight :(

Show threadGernotJul 3, 2023

@mrc What about the police? Or the „Lost & Found“ if the place you found it is having something like that? If I was losing a phone that would be the first places where I’d ask. Not the carrier.

But be aware that there is also be a hidden resell/recycling industry that is behind some places you’d think you can trust with lost items: https://9to5mac.com/2023/05/28/lost-ipad-pro-las-vegas/

The worldwide journey of an iPad Pro left behind in a Las Vegas hotel room - 9to5Mac

The saying “what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas” apparently doesn’t apply to an iPad Pro left behind in a...

9to5Mac
Show threadGernotJul 3, 2023
@mrc And if it’s a new iPhone (14, maybe 13?) it can be tracked with FindMy over Bluetooth like the AirTags. This can even work if the phone has not SIM, no network, is totally locked and for some time when it has no power. At least charging the battery should keep that feature alive longer.
Show threadMárton SalomváryJul 3, 2023
@gernot It's a 1st gen SE. I might try my own SIM, that's a good tip!
Show threadGernot
@mrc 1st gen SE is not having that integrated AirTag… But it should have FindMy/Lost Mode if it is activation locked and can be connected to a network somehow.
Jul 3, 2023 at 9:04amWeb