Passcode wrong even though it is correct

[LadyX]

I don't know what the issue is here. I've had iPhones for years and I've never had this happen before. So my 4 digit numeric code suddenly does not work anymore. I keep getting that it's wrong and now my iPhone is disabled for 1 hour. I am 100% sure it is correct, I've been using the same one for years. I even have it written in my notebook. I had the iPhone XS Max since release day. I've searched and apparently the same thing happened to other iPhone users but most of the posts are from years ago with no solution other than factory resetting the iPhone. What could be the problem??

 

[ian87w]

I think ever since the 5s or so, Apple requires 6 digits (I could be wrong, or there might be an option to go back to 4 digits).

In any case, since yours is 4 digits, it might be easy for someone (be it a friend, family, etc) to somehow guessed it and changed it. Just a possibility.
If you have a regular back up through iCloud or iTunes, simply reset and then restore the phone. Fairly easy and straightforward.

 

[LadyX]

I think ever since the 5s or so, Apple requires 6 digits (I could be wrong, or there might be an option to go back to 4 digits).

In any case, since yours is 4 digits, it might be easy for someone (be it a friend, family, etc) to somehow guessed it and changed it. Just a possibility.
If you have a regular back up through iCloud or iTunes, simply reset and then restore the phone. Fairly easy and straightforward.

No, no one changed it. I haven't been outside the house for almost a month now. Unfortunately I don't have a back up. I feel like crying.

 

[ian87w]

No, no one changed it. I haven't been outside the house for almost a month now. Unfortunately I don't have a back up. I feel like crying.

Well, can't comment on not having a backup. Let this be a lesson then.

Try to remember different combinations of 4 digit codes you might have used, and tap the numbers slowly. On iPhones, sometimes I see the screen missed the first digit if I typed in too fast.

 

[Nermal]

Can you still unlock by connecting to iTunes or is that not a 'thing' any more?

 

[ian87w]

Here's Apple's guide.

If you forgot your iPhone passcode or your iPhone is disabled - Apple Support

Locked out of your iPhone and forgot your passcode? Use a computer to put your iPhone into recovery mode so you can erase your phone and set it up again.

support.apple.com

Can you still unlock by connecting to iTunes or is that not a 'thing' any more?

Well, for security reasons, that's not a thing anymore. If you forget your own passcode, the only way is to restore the device and then restore from backup.

 

[Audit13]

I think ever since the 5s or so, Apple requires 6 digits (I could be wrong, or there might be an option to go back to 4 digits).

You can opt to use a 4 digit passcode during the set up process but it is not the default option.