Microsoft account locked out my PC

Roger C 20 Reputation points
2025-11-06T05:53:42.6966667+00:00

I downloaded BF6 to play and discovered that secure boot wasn’t working. I then updated my bios (Z690i) to enable it and on boot up Windows disabled my PIN and blocked access. On attempting to reset my PIN Windows would only recognise my backup email which is defunct (company server shut down). I am now stuck with a locked up PC. Any advice on a work around other than a new account and windows install

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Security and privacy
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Answer accepted by question author
GsN5034 - IA 77,085 Reputation points Independent Advisor
2025-11-06T06:42:00.6366667+00:00

Hello, thank you for reaching out to Microsoft Q&A.

If you've made any changes to your computer, such as updating the BIOS, you will be asked to reset your PIN. This is because the BIOS update might have reset the TPM, which stores the hashes for your Windows Hello PIN. If any changes are made to the TPM chip, you will be asked to reset your PIN.

  1. Do you have any other verification method, such as a Phone number or an authenticator, to verify your email address?
    • If you only have your company email address and it is defunct, your only option will be to replace the security information.

That is, on the verify your Identity screen, select "I don;t have any of these" and follow the prompts to repalce teh security information.

Note: If you remove all your previous security information and replace it with new information, your account will be put into a restricted state for 30 days.

These are the reasons Microsoft always recommends having at least 3 verification methods. Even if one method fails, you can sign in with another method.

You can reset your PIN after the security information is updated.

If you would like to use the device immediately, you will have to completely factory reset your PC from the WinRE and sign in with a different account.

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