Most of us use iPhones and iPads every day. Over the life of a device, we accumulate a vast amount of sensitive data and information, including messages, photos, videos, contacts, credit cards, passwords, and more. That’s why it’s important to make sure you have a backup of all your important items so you can get rid of it before selling it or giving it to someone else.
If you get a new device, you'll want to make sure you transfer everything to your new iPhone or iPad first. Then, before you sell or give away your old device, you'll need to wipe all personal data and wipe your iPhone or iPad to make sure all your sensitive information is gone from the device.
Thankfully, iOS makes this very easy, and whether you're wiping data from an ancient iPhone or the latest iPhone 14 Pro, it only takes a few minutes.
How to back up your IPHONE or IPAD before erasing it
Before you do anything else, you need an up-to-date iPhone backup so that your deleted information is stored somewhere. iCloud automatically creates backups overnight as long as you're plugged in and on Wi-Fi, but manual backups will ensure you're absolutely up to date.
1. Please make sure your iPhone or iPad is connected to Wi-Fi. (If the battery is low, you can also plug in the device)
2. Launch settings from the home screen
3. Click the Apple ID banner at the top
4. Click iCloud
5. Scroll down and tap iCloud Backup
6. Click the switch to open
7. Select “Backup Now”
Wait for the iPhone backup to complete before continuing. You can also back up your iPhone or iPad using a computer, which may be a better option if you're pressed for time.
How to delete all data from iPhone or iPad
iOS makes it simple to wipe your device and returns you to the setup process after wiping so you have a clean device to start over or sell.
1. Launch the Settings app from your iPhone or iPad’s home screen
2. Now click “General”
3. Scroll to the bottom and click Restore
4. Click Erase All Content and Settings
5. Click Continue
6. Enter your device password
7. Enter your Apple ID password to turn off Activation Lock and remove the device from Find My iPhone
Once the process is complete, you can give or sell your device to others without worrying about personal data being compromised.