It’s simple yet complex so here we go! Ok so to answer a couple of questions, Can’t Apple just unlock my device if I forget my passcode? No they can not and the reason is key to the encryption on your device and what makes Apple devices very secure. So your device comes with an encryption key (string of numbers and characters) programmed on it from the factory. When you receive the device and set your passcode the passcode gets broken up into single digits and mixed into the factory encryption locally (meaning only on your device), this in turn becomes your devices encryption key which is now a one of a kind. This is the reason Apple can’t just provide a Passcode if someone forgets theirs. It is a double edged sword in that if you forget your passcode any data not backed up will be lost because the only way to get back into the device is to do what’s called a DFU restore, this erases the devices and sets it back to factory including your encryption. Now that’s not all, once you restore the device during the initial set up the device will hit the cloud, see the device is attached to an iCloud account and ask for those credentials. This is what’s known as an iCloud Lock. Now there are some ways that Apple has to get into a device but they typically do not provide those services except in special circumstances including the sudden death of a loved one etc. Also there are companies that have found a way however it would cost you a small fortune to get into the device. Basically the passcode is the key to your devices security so the moral of the story DO NOT FORGET YOUR PASSCODE!! Hope this helps a little with understanding Apple Device Security!
