Managing personal Outlook.com account settings, security, and privacy
Use this recovery path:
- Run a full malware scan on the PC before changing anything:
- Open Virus and threat protection
- Select Scan options > Full scan > Scan now
- Try the Microsoft sign-in helper tool for hacked accounts. It can guide to self-help steps or offer the option to talk to an agent.
- If sign-in is still blocked, reset the password:
- On the sign-in page, select Forgot my password
- If prompted, select I think someone else is using my Microsoft account
- Follow the recovery steps
- If verification codes are going to an old phone number and there is no access to current security info:
- Review Help with the Microsoft account recovery form
- Submit the recovery form
- If the account has been inactive for years and there is not enough information to verify ownership, recovery may not succeed.
- If access is regained, immediately review and correct account security settings:
- Check connected accounts
- Check forwarding
- Check automatic replies
- Change the password to a strong new password
- Review Recent activity and mark unfamiliar sign-ins as This wasn't me or Secure your account
- Replacing the old recovery phone number is only possible after access to the account is restored. Support agents are not allowed to send password reset links or change account details on behalf of the account owner.
- If an unexpected verification code was received, do not respond to it. Without the code, the account remains protected.
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