5 Red Flags That Can Turn a Used iPhone Bargain Into an Expensive Brick

Buying a used iPhone is a quick and easy way to save money on Apple’s smartphones. Since iPhones tend to remain useful for years, you can often find a relatively recent model for hundreds of dollars less than its original price.

However, buying secondhand comes with a few risks. An iPhone might look almost brand-new but have a worn-out battery or a replacement screen that doesn’t work properly. In some cases, the device might even have restrictions that prevent you from using it with your carrier.

There’s also the possibility of buying an iPhone that’s still connected to its previous owner’s Apple Account. If that happens, you might end up with a device you can’t even activate at all.

That’s why it’s important to know what to look for before buying an iPhone. Whether you’re buying from a stranger or a refurbished electronics retailer, be sure to double-check these things before you make an expensive mistake.