Abstract: A method and apparatus to deter theft of electronic-devices is disclosed. Electronic-devices have locked and unlocked states that permit deny and permit use of the electronic-device. Electronic-devices are shipped from manufacturers, thorough suppliers, to retailers in the locked state. Unlocking functions are transmitted through computer networks to the retail locations and held in volatile storage. The unlocking of the electronic-device occurs subsequent to purchase. Other methods and apparatus are disclosed related to multiple distribution methods of unlocking schemes, re-locking and return validation and data structures.