Can't disable "Lost Mode" despite computer being linked to my iCloud account

[lucasd3]

My Macbook is suddenly locked and unusable. It asks for a six-digit "system lock pin code" and says to go to icloud.com/find (see attached image). It also displays the custom message "Lucifer", which would seem to suggest some kind of hacker may be behind this. The strange thing is that the device is registered to my iCloud account and shows up under "My Devices" at icloud.com/settings. But it doesn't appear at icloud.com/find. So, how do I unlock it?

(I called Apple Support, and they said I would have to bring it to the Apple store to get it unlocked, but they had no explanation or theory as to what is going on.)

Possibly relevant thread from a few years ago: https://forums.macrumors.com/thread...acs-and-demand-ransom-payments.2069790/page-9

View attachment 1690905

 

[0128672]

Absolutely you'll want to follow Apple's instructions and bring it to a store to be examined and unlocked.

 

[lucasd3]

Absolutely you'll want to follow Apple's instructions and bring it to a store to be examined and unlocked.

Yes, but I'll have to wait until I can take time off to drive there -- it's more than 3 hours away. In the meantime, I'm interested to figure out what's going on.

 

[Apple_Robert]

Have you installed any pirated software?

You will need proof purchase when you go to the Apple store.