Stolen iPhone — Can’t Change Apple Account Password From Mac

My iPhone has been stolen and I’m worried about someone with the phone being able to change my Apple Account password before I can secure it.

I’m trying to change my Apple Account password from my Mac, but Apple is not allowing me to complete the password change from the Mac — it seems to be requiring the iPhone.

Earlier I was also getting a CAPTCHA when trying to do this, and it repeatedly said my answers were incorrect even though I believe I was entering them correctly. Now the CAPTCHA isn’t appearing at all.

I’m worried that whoever has the iPhone could change the password before I’m able to secure the account.

What should I do right now to make sure they cannot take over my Apple Account? Is there a way to change the password or secure the account entirely from the Mac when the trusted iPhone is stolen?

I have access to my Mac and my Apple Account information. I’m looking for advice from anyone who has dealt with a stolen iPhone and Apple Account security.

Posted on Sep 17, 2026 1:41 PM

1 reply

Servant of Cats

Level 9 (55,707 points)

Sep 17, 2026 7:32 PM in response to tj_please

Have you marked your iPhone as Lost? If not, do that now. You can do that using a Web browser – and if you use the link Apple outlines in their Support document, "You don't need a verification code to sign in, so you can sign in and mark your device as lost even if your trusted device was stolen."

If your iPhone or iPad was stolen - Apple Support

Then, if you are worried about your Apple Account, see this:

If you think your Apple Account has been compromised - Apple Support