How to Fix "iPhone in Security Lockout Null"

Kelly Wu
Last updated: May 28, 2025

Learn the possible reasons behind "This iPhone is in security lockout. You can try your passcode again in (null)." Discover effective solutions for dealing with a null iPhone passcode.

It’s confusing and upsetting to see the message “This iPhone is in security lockout. You can try your passcode again in (null).” This frustrating situation can arise when you’ve entered an incorrect passcode too many times, resulting in a temporary lock on your device. Normally, you can enter the wrong passcode several times, but the “null iPhone passcode” message indicates a failure to display the countdown timer. The absence of a countdown timer can add to the frustration, as you are not sure when you might regain access to your device.

To resolve the dilemma, it's necessary to identify the root causes of this problem. In the following sections, we’ll explore the possible reasons and demonstrate effective strategies to resolve the error. Continue reading to learn how to restore your device to normal operation with ease.

Fixed! iPhone in Security Lockout Null

What Does "iPhone in Security Lockout Null" Mean on an iPhone?

If you see “This iPhone is in security lockout. You can try your passcode again in (null),” it typically means that the device has been disabled due to too many incorrect passcode attempts. On the other hand, this also indicates a glitch where the device fails to determine the appropriate wait time before you can enter your passcode again.

iPhone In Security Lockout

How to Fix "iPhone in Security Lockout Null"

Here, we’ll explore effective methods to resolve this issue. Whether you’re facing this problem due to a forgotten passcode or software glitches, our step-by-step instructions will help you navigate the troubleshooting process. Let’s get started on restoring access to your device!

Force Restart Your Device

Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve software glitches. The method for a force restart may vary for different iOS models. Check the specific instructions for your device and restart it.

Restart Your iPhone

Choose the Erase iPhone Option

At the bottom of your screen, you may see an Erase iPhone option. Tap on it, enter the password for your Apple ID, and then an automatic erasing process will start.

Use Recovery Mode

If you fail to enter the password for your Apple ID, you can restore your device in recovery mode.

Note
This solution will erase all data on your device, so make sure you have a backup before proceeding with the restoration.
Put iPhone in Recovery Mode and Bypass the Passcode

Here's how:

  1. Connect your iPhone to your computer via a USB cable.
  2. Open iTunes on Windows (or Finder on macOS Catalina or later).
  3. Put your iPhone into recovery mode.
  • For iPhone 8 and later
    1. Quickly press and release the Volume Up button.
    2. Quickly press and release the Volume Down button.
    3. Press and hold the Side button until the recovery mode screen appears.
  • For iPhone 7 and 7 Plus Press and hold the Volume Down and the Side buttons simultaneously until you see the recovery mode screen.
  • For iPhone 6s and earlier Press and hold the Home and the Top (or Side) buttons simultaneously until you see the recovery mode screen.
  1. Once your device is in recovery mode, you can click Restore to reset your iPhone. This process will erase your data and get your device to factory settings.

Explore Third-Party Tools

BuhoUnlocker can also assist you in bypassing passcode issues without the passcode. As a professional screen passcode unlocker, this user-friendly tool can bypass various screen locks, such as 4-digit, 6-digit, Face ID, and Touch ID. Its straightforward interface makes the unlocking process quite easy. You can regain access to your device in just a few minutes.

DownloadRuns on Windows & Mac
Security Verified & 100% Safe

Here's how to fix the "iPhone in security lockout null" issue using BuhoUnlocker.

Step 1. Free download and install BuhoUnlocker on your computer. Connect your iPhone, open the software, and choose the “Unlock Screen Passcode” option.

BuhoUnlocker Unlock Screen Passcode

Step 2. Follow the on-screen steps to put your iPhone into recovery mode. Once your iPhone is in recovery mode, BuhoUnlocker will prompt you to download the latest firmware that matches your device.

Put iPhone in Recovery Mode

Step 3. After the firmware download completes, click “Unlock Now” and wait for the process to finish.

Step 4. Once the unlocking process is complete, your iPhone will display the Hello screen. Then follow the instructions to set up your device.

Unlock Screen Passcode Success

Check for Updates

If you can regain access, check for system and software updates. Installing the latest version of the iOS system and regularly updating your applications can prevent vulnerabilities and fix bugs. To avoid facing the issue of an iPhone being in a security lockout state again, you can check for updates of both your iOS and your applications.

Connect your device to Wi-Fi. Then go to Settings > General > Software Update to check if your iOS is up to date.

Update iOS

Meanwhile, keep your apps updated by visiting the App Store, tapping your profile icon, and selecting the “Update All” option.

Conclusion

It's frustrating to face the "Security Lockout Null" issue on your iPhone or iPad. However, you can effectively resolve this issue by taking the right steps. You can start with a simple restart, use iOS recovery mode, or try the best iPhone unlocker BuhoUnlocker to restore your device.

Note that these methods may lead to data loss, so establish the habit of frequently backing up your device. Besides, you can always update your iOS system and apps to the latest version to prevent you from facing the same dilemma again.

Living in Chengdu, Kelly is an Apple technician focused on Mac, iPhone, and iOS repairs. Meanwhile, he's also a columnist at Dr.Buho, with a simple mission to help fix Apple things that are with software or hardware glitches.