How do I get back into an email account that has been locked

If the Outlook.com email account is locked, use the official Microsoft account unlock and recovery flows. Steps depend on what is shown when signing in.

1. Go to https://account.microsoft.com and try to sign in with the locked account.
2. If a message says the account is locked and prompts for a security code:
   • Choose where to receive the code (any phone that can receive SMS works; it does not need to be associated with the account).
   • Enter the code and follow the prompts. You may be asked to create a new password.
3. If the sign-in page does not show Next and instead indicates the account is locked due to suspicious activity or Terms of Use issues:
   • Use the aka.ms/ link shown in that window to open the account reinstatement form.
   • Submit the requested information once and wait for the Microsoft Online Safety team to respond by email. Do not submit multiple forms, as that can slow the response.
4. If sign-in fails even with the correct password, or the username/password “stopped working,” use the recovery flow:
   • Go to the Recover your account page at https://account.live.com/password/reset.
   • Enter the email address, phone number, or Skype name.
   • Choose where to get a security code and select Next.
   • Enter the code, then set a new password.
5. If the account was blocked due to unusual sign-in activity (new device, travel, new location):
   • Follow the instructions on the sign-in screen to receive and enter a security code.
   • If traveling and unable to access normal security info, try signing in from a trusted device or usual location that was previously used with the account.
6. If recovery attempts hit limits (too many attempts, daily limit reached):
   • Stop trying and wait at least 24 hours before attempting again, as repeated attempts can extend the lockout.

If none of the above works and the automated recovery or reinstatement forms are unsuccessful, support agents cannot manually unlock or bypass Microsoft account security; access to the mailbox and its contents cannot be restored without passing the automated verification.

References:

• Microsoft account has been locked
• What happens if there's an unusual sign-in to your account
• My username and password have stopped working
• Cannot Access Microsoft Account After Hacker Changed Email, Advice Needed - Microsoft Q&A
• Locked out of my Outlook account and recovery options not working - Microsoft Q&A
• Can't sign in to my email - Microsoft Q&A
• Why can't I log in to my Outlook account? - Microsoft Q&A
• I need to speak with a real person and it seems impossible. - Microsoft Q&A