How to Prepare a Device Before Selling It
Prepare a phone or computer for sale by backing up data, removing accounts, transferring ownership, resetting it, and checking accessories and records.
Protect your data before thinking about the sale
Make a list of the files, photos, messages, authenticator apps, passkeys, and accounts that live on the device. Back up or transfer what you need, then verify the copy from another device. Do not assume that an application's visible files are the only data worth keeping.
Remove payment cards, accounts, paired accessories, device-finding locks, and work profiles through the official settings. Check whether encryption is enabled and follow the manufacturer's current instructions for erasing the device. A simple logout may leave personal data or an activation lock behind.
Reset and describe it honestly
After removing accounts, perform the official factory reset or secure erase. Start the device again and confirm that it shows the initial setup screen rather than your information. Clean the device, collect compatible accessories, and record the model, storage, condition, and known faults accurately.
- Keep the receipt or proof of ownership.
- Remove the device from trusted-device lists.
- Do not share serial numbers publicly without a reason.
- Use a safe meeting or shipping method.
Check the device from the buyer's point of view after the reset: no account should be visible, the network should be ready, and the included accessories should match the description. Remove any remaining device from your account dashboard and trusted-device list. A careful transfer protects the buyer and the previous owner. The device should be ready for a new account without leaving your digital life attached to it.