how can I unlock a preowned phone

[myrabrooks59]

I purchased a used Galaxy 5 (with verizon network) online and gave to a friend as a gift; also, the phone did not come with a carrier SIM card. When my friend tried to activate the phone, she was told that the phone is locked and can only be unlocked by the previous owner. I have no idea who the previous owner is. How can we get this phone unlocked for activation? BTW, I am a Verizon service customer. Please advise.

 

[hang-the-9]

The carrier needs to unlock it, if they say they need the previous owner to unlock it, you need to track down the previous owner or return the phone from where you bought it. We can't help with bypassing security.

 

[myrabrooks59]

I appreciate your quick response. This will be an issue to resolve since I purchased the phone on line through an auction website and do not know who the previous owner is. It looks like I am stuck with an unusable phone.

 

[hang-the-9]

I appreciate your quick response. This will be an issue to resolve since I purchased the phone on line through an auction website and do not know who the previous owner is. It looks like I am stuck with an unusable phone.

Even if you don't know who the owner was, I would think whatever site you got it from would have a money back protection for buyers. If the phone was not described correctly as being locked then you should be able to get your money back.