If the original Gmail sign-in now returns “account doesn’t exist”, the sign-in alias was likely changed or removed.
Recommended actions:
- Use the Sign-in Helper tool first. It is the primary path for Microsoft account sign-in issues and hacked accounts.
- If the account was compromised, run a full malware scan on the PC before changing any passwords on related accounts:
- Open Virus and threat protection
- Select Scan options > Full scan > Scan now
- Submit the Microsoft account recovery form and provide as much accurate information as possible, including previous passwords and account details.
- Gather the ownership evidence already available, such as:
- Xbox gamertag
- Minecraft purchase receipt
- Microsoft transaction IDs
- Previous sign-in details
- If access is restored, immediately:
- Change the password
- Review connected accounts, forwarding, and automatic replies
- Check Recent activity for the last 30 days
- Update security settings and remove trusted devices if needed
Important limits from Microsoft support guidance:
- Microsoft Support agents are not allowed to send password reset links or directly change account details.
- Account recovery is handled through the automated recovery process.
- If the attacker changed the associated sign-in data and recovery is unsuccessful, accepted Microsoft Q&A guidance indicates the account may no longer be recoverable.
- Creating a new Microsoft account with the same Gmail address does not restore purchases tied to the original account.
If Minecraft was purchased on the compromised account and the Microsoft account cannot be recovered, the purchase remains attached to the original account. In that case, keep the receipt and transaction details available for any product-specific support path.
- I can't sign in to my Microsoft account | Microsoft Support
- How to recover a hacked or compromised Microsoft account | Microsoft Support
- How to recover a hacked or compromised Microsoft account | Microsoft Support
- Check the recent sign-in activity for your Microsoft account
- Microsoft account hacked, sign-in alias changed, account now says it doesn't exist - Microsoft Q&A
- How to recover a hacked minecraft account - Microsoft Q&A