Unable to reset Apple ID security questions

In 2015 Apple transitioned to using two factor authentication instead of security questions. Since then Apple has been persistently encouraging users to switch to the more secure system. Apple allows you continue to use security questions if you already use them, but if you end up having problems then they no longer get direct support.

You can try the reset service at this link ➞ https://getsupport.apple.com/?caller=cups&PGF=PGF63005

Select “Forgot Security Questions” then “Continue”

Additional reset methods are provided in this support article https://support.apple.com/HT201485 but the article is labeled "archived" and may contain information that no longer applies.

If resetting works then fine, but if it does not (e.g., you see “not enough information”*) then you will have no option but to change to the newer security method, if you can. For those who have disregarded Apple’s encouraging to change to two factor, Apple will likely only help you to now change to two factor authentication, if even that is possible. Follow the instructions in the "Turn on two-factor authentication for your Apple ID" section in this support article --> https://support.apple.com/HT204915 to try to change to two factor authentication.

If you still need help, contact Apple Account support If that does not work you can contact Apple support and service; click here ➔ https://support.apple.com/106932

If Apple cannot, or will not, help you transition to two factor authentication then it is quite possible you will have to simply abandon the old account and everything it contained. In that case, if you were using the Find My service, the Activation Lock support request support article at: - https://al-support.apple.com/#/additional-support may at least let you regain use of your equipment. If not, you will also have to say goodbye to the device as well.

Good luck!

Odd, you should get either prompts for a code if you are using Two Factor Authentication, or you should get prompts for Security Questions answers, not both. 2FA disables Security Questions.

If you see the message below, or similar "inactive" messages:

- "Inactive" Apple ID/Account

- "Verification Failed. This Apple ID is not active."

and you see an alert with a Request Access button, you might be able to request access to your account by tapping Request Access. If that does not work, this link —> https://getsupport.apple.com/?PGF=PGF63005&category_id=SC0245&symptom_id=23626 is the most direct way to get to the people helping you with this. You can also try by telephone at one of the numbers in this support article --> https://support.apple.com/HT201232 If neither of those work for you, see if you can reach any live support at Apple using https://support.apple.com/contact

If you have not used the account in a long time, note:

https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/icloud/en/terms.html

VII. B "In addition, Apple may terminate your Account upon 30 days’ prior notice via email to the address associated with your Account if (a) your Account has been inactive for one (1) year" However, if you are getting codes or prompts then that means the account is still there.

Thank you.

I tried the reset thing on both links and it keeps saying there's not enough information. It gives me the option to upgrade my security but then it loads the security questions again before I can continue. I can't update my address either because it loads the security questions.

This is very frustrating but I do understand the need for tight security.

If I try to access the podcast section so I can just use this account instead it says that I have to activate my account but it doesn't say how. I filled in everything, verified my email and number and it doesn't give me the 2fa option unless they count the code they sms or text as 2fa which is weird cause it's an otp and 2fa need something like authy to verify.

This is why I'm trying to use my old account instead and well there's still a balance in my wallet.

I appreciate your help.