Find My is a feature that lets you locate, track, and erase your iPhone, iPad, or Mac should it get lost or stolen. If you’re selling or giving away your device, you’ll want to turn it off and sign out of your Apple ID so the new user can sign in to theirs. Once turned off, it can no-longer be tracked by Apple unless you turn it back on.
After turning it off, you should get an email from Apple notifying you of the change. If you didn’t make this change, a third-party may have gained unauthorized access to your Apple ID, in which case you should change your Apple ID password immediately.
How to turn off find my iPhone or iPad
Note: If you’re using VoiceOver, whenever this guide says to “Tap” perform a one-finger double-tap instead.
To turn off Find My iPhone or iPad, open Settings > [your name] > Find My > Find My iPhone, and toggle “Find my iPhone” off. Enter your Apple ID password to confirm the change.
Alternatively, tapping sign out in Apple ID settings or erasing all content and settings on the device by going to Settings > General > Transfer or reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings will also disable Find my iPhone.
How to turn off find my Mac
Note: If you’re using VoiceOver, whenever this guide says to “Click” press VO-Space instead.
To turn off Find My Mac, open System Preferences > Apple ID and select iCloud in the table. In the “iCloud services” table, uncheck the “Find My Mac” checkbox and enter your Apple ID password to confirm the change. If you’re using VoiceOver, you may need to interact with the table cell with VO-Shift-Down-Arrow to focus on and deselect the checkbox.
Alternatively, clicking sign out in Apple ID preferences or erasing all content and settings on a Mac with a T2 Security chip or Apple Silicon by choosing System Preferences > Erase all content and settings will also disable Find My Mac.
If you have any questions or suggestions for future tips, sound off in the comments.
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