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approx. six weeks ago I found a Google pixel phone in a washroom at a local store
I have tried to locate owner by leaving messages with store security and also on local bulletin boards. Nothing.
looks like some tried to reset phone as it is at stage where it is ready to be set up. Part of this process is to log into the Google account previously used on the device, I have no clue
anyone know how to get past this, seems phone is working order but cannot be used.
Only the original Google account holder can do that. This is done to make it difficult for someone who steals or finds a phone from using it. No different than the iPhone device security.
Only the original Google account holder can do that. This is done to make it difficult for someone who steals or finds a phone from using it. No different than the iPhone device security.
so if I cannot find the owner it is basically worthless?
so if I cannot find the owner it is basically worthless?
To you, it would be worthless.
If you know which cellular carrier it was being used on, the correct thing would be to return it to the provider and they could contact the phone owner. It is a security feature to prevent unauthorized access to the user's account/data.
If you know which cellular carrier it was being used on, the correct thing would be to return it to the provider and they could contact the phone owner. It is a security feature to prevent unauthorized access to the user's account/data.
ok, I wish I did, there was no SIM and it had been wiped, I guess it may have been stolen then dumped
I don't know of any way of finding out. I was able to get IMEI and looked it up and its clean, not reported lost or stolen
Doesn't matter if was or wan't reported lost/stolen. "Finders keepers" doesn't apply in this situation. Legally it isn't your phone.
I don't want to keep it I want to find the owner, I already have a decent phone. I will take it to my local Bell store, chances are the phone is on their network, biggest company in my area. Perhaps they can deal with it
You do not need a google account to use the phone. You DO need it to restore apps and settings and to install apps via the Play Store. The provider, AT&T, T-mobile or whatever will make it work via an activated SIM or if it is a CDMA phone, they do it directly to the phone via the IEMI. Not sure what provider it would be in Canada. Even if it has not been reported lost or stolen it may be possible to find the person or account to which it is linked.
Anyone can lock a google android phone remotely via a computer/tablet or even another phone. If I ever lost my phone or it was stolen first thing I would do is see if I can find a stationary location for the phone, if not, wipe it and lock it.
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