How is iCloud linked to a device is it through the imei or iccid or ?

[iMore Question]

I have two pre owed iPhones the same model one will not power on the other one Is iCloud locked.
It's seems unfortunate to have two the same devices not lost or stolen but pre owned. One working and other not. To not be able to transfer icloud to other non working devices, while not be able to access people's personal info. clearly that's not kosher or morally correct.

 

[kch50428]

It's all about the AppleID... iCloud, Activation Lock... all of it.

 

[Just_Me_D]

Get the one that will not power on fixed and enter the iCloud credentials to unlock the one that's protected via the iCloud Activation Lock. After that, and if the devices are indeed yours, then you won't have any problems transferring the data between them.