I messed up - 2FA enabled on account but deleted 2FA profile on Authenticator / Can't recover account

DaveL12345 0 Reputation points
2025-09-21T11:10:18.93+00:00

Hi,

All advice welcome!

  • MS account setup, with backup email, Hello/PIN, and 2FA
  • Accidentally deleted the 2FA profile on authenticator, whilst tidying app profiles up.
  • Because I have 2FA enabled on the account, the account password, the system password, the Hello pin, backup email (get code) are not working, and MS support say they cannot help as this is system driven with no human intervention.

Any suggestions?

Microsoft Security | Microsoft Authenticator

1 answer

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  1. Akpesiri Ogbebor 3,120 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
    2025-09-21T11:54:03.62+00:00

    Hi @daveL12345

    This can be frustrating, but you still have a few options to recover your account even after deleting the Authenticator profile:

    1. Check a trusted device – If you’re still signed in anywhere (PC, phone, Xbox), go to https://aka.ms/mysecurityinfo and add a new sign-in method.
    2. Use the recovery form – If you’re locked out everywhere, fill out https://account.live.com/acsr. Provide as much info as possible (old passwords, subject lines of sent emails, Xbox Gamertag, billing info, etc.) to help Microsoft verify you.
    3. Look for backup codes – If you saved the 10-digit recovery codes when you first set up 2FA, use one to sign in and then re-enable the Authenticator.

    If none of these options work, starting recovery puts your account on a 30-day security hold, after which you’ll be able to reset your security information and set up new methods.

    Once you’re back in, I recommend setting up at least two sign-in methods (Authenticator + SMS/email) and saving backup codes somewhere safe to prevent this from happening again.

    If the answer is helpful, please click "Accept Answer" and kindly upvote it. If you have extra questions about this answer, please click "Comment".

    Siri

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