If the account email, password, and recovery methods were changed, the supported recovery path is the Microsoft account recovery and reinstatement process.
- First, secure the PC before attempting recovery again.
- Open Windows Security.
- Go to Virus & threat protection.
- Select Scan options > Full scan > Scan now.
- Microsoft recommends a full malware scan before changing passwords or continuing account recovery.
- Try the Microsoft sign-in helper.
- If sign-in is blocked or the account appears locked, use the Microsoft account sign-in helper.
- It can guide to the correct self-help flow or offer the chance to talk to an agent.
- If the account is locked and the Let’s prove you’re human option does not appear, use the reinstatement link shown in the sign-in window.
- For accounts locked due to suspicious activity or Terms of Use enforcement, the sign-in page provides a link that begins with aka.ms/.
- Submit that form once and wait for review by Microsoft Online Safety support.
- Do not submit repeated requests, because Microsoft states that additional submissions can slow the response.
- If the account is compromised, continue using the account recovery form with the strongest ownership details available.
- Microsoft’s recovery guidance and accepted support guidance indicate this remains the primary path for personal Microsoft accounts.
- Use a working alternate contact email in the form.
- Include as much identifying information as possible, such as old passwords and service-specific details tied to the account.
- If the account was used with Xbox or OneDrive, include unique details related to those services when completing recovery.
- If recovery continues to fail, contact Microsoft Support from another Microsoft account.
- Go to Contact Microsoft Support, enter the problem, select Get Help, then Contact Support.
- Microsoft support can route to the best support option, but support agents are not allowed to send password reset links or directly change account details unless the proper recovery or reinstatement process is completed.
- If access is restored, immediately secure the account.
- Change the password.
- Review connected accounts, forwarding, and automatic replies.
- Check the Recent activity page for sign-ins from the last 30 days.
- Update security info on the Security basics page.
Important limits from Microsoft support:
- Support agents cannot directly reset the password or change account details outside the official recovery/reinstatement process.
- If a reinstatement form was submitted, wait for the email response instead of sending more requests.
- Microsoft account has been locked | Microsoft Support
- How to recover a hacked or compromised Microsoft account | Microsoft Support
- How to help keep your Microsoft account secure | Microsoft Support
- Check the recent sign-in activity for your Microsoft account
- Unable to Recover Hacked Microsoft Account via Form - Email Changed and 2FA Disabled - Microsoft Q&A