Looks like we can't unlock your device. You canceled service for this device within the 14-day return policy period.

We're here to help get your device unlocked @energyx.

To unlock your device it must meet a list of Eligibility Requirements.

• Is an AT&T phone or device and isn’t active on another AT&T account.
• Was paid in full when you bought it (not on an installment plan). You won’t have to wait 60 days to unlock it.
• Has a paid-off installment plan.
  • Paid through your monthly bill: Submit your unlock request at the start of your next bill period.
  • Paid off early: The wireless number assigned to the device must be active for at least 60 days. Wait 48 hours after you make your final payment to submit your unlock request. Learn how pay off your installment plan.
• Doesn’t have a past-due account balance. Make a payment to bring your account current. It will take 24 hours for your payment to post. 
• Hasn’t been reported as lost, stolen, or involved with fraud.
• Is an AT&T PREPAID^SM phone that has had paid service for at least six months.

Please confirm the following:

1. Are you the original owner of the device? You could be getting this message if the original owner canceled service before their commitment was met. You will need to reach out to them to have this resolved.
2. Have you switched devices on your account recently and then went back to that device? This will reset the 60 day term needed to unlock the device.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Samantha, AT&T Community Specialist

It was purchased as on open box customer return, so the original purchaser will not be available. You're saying there is no way for a returned and repurchased phone to ever be unlocked once it has this status, even though it is paid for in full and active the minimum 60 days on the network? If this is the case I will be reaching out to the FCC.

No, that’s not what ATTHelp is saying but it will probablytake someone with more permissions or knowledge to rectify, so filing the FCC complaint is probably your best option.

Thank you for the response @energyx.

Can you confirm where the device was purchased? Did you purchase the device at an AT&T store or a third party service? This will help us provide you with more information.

Reach back out and let us know!

Samantha, AT&T Community Specialist

It was purchased from a third party retailer as an open box phone.

Thanks for your response and letting us know, @energyx.

At this time, we'd advise for you to follow up with the third party retailer and or original seller of the device, as they'll need to further assist you with your concerns. 

We do apologize for the inconvenience and thanks for reaching out to the AT&T Community Team!

Lynn, AT&T Community Specialist

Hey. I have the same problem. Can't AT and T unlock the device for a fee? I mean if the device was returned, then the phone shouldn't be locked to the plan forever. Especially if it is an older device like my iPhone 12. It doesn't feel fair.

@Victor_James 

AT&T can't help you if you didn't purchase the phone from a legitimate AT&T reseller. 

Online sources like swappa, eBay, black market, are not legitimate sources and AT&T cannot help you 

Contact the seller. If the seller can't clear the phone for you, then return it and get your money back 

In general it is no longer safe to buy used phones. Service providers are taking steps to prevent various types of fraud and theft. This means phones may be locked,  blacklisted, or just restricted to the account that is still financing the phone