Cannot sign in to microsoft account

Phil Lewis 20 Reputation points
2026-04-20T14:04:31.6333333+00:00

I'm locked out of my Microsoft acc./outlook emails which I use for business on my PC & laptop.

My outlook phone app is still logged in but I cannot log into my Microsoft account on the phone browser I'm just still in on the app and that is very scary.

My business, Bills, HMRC, and everything else uses that account. if I'm locked out of the app i'm in trouble at this point.

The account is a @hotmail.co.uk (ive had it over 20+ years)

I have 2 step verification (for codes) at a @googlemail.com account

when I try to access it sends a code to the googlemail account but then asks for 2 step verification which is the same option @googlemail account and I get

"There is a temporary problem with this service please try again later" but later i get

"Youve requested too many codes"

I've tried waiting 24 hours for several attempts. I'm losing the will to live HEEEEELP Plz!!!!!!!!

Phil.

Outlook | Web | Outlook.com | Email
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Answer accepted by question author
Darhyl Amizola 50,175 Reputation points Independent Advisor
2026-04-20T15:27:39.1433333+00:00

Hey there! Nice to meet you!

The error message you received indicates that your account is blocked due to the system detecting unusual activity. Your password and your verification methods will not work until the account block expires.

Kindly perform these steps to fix the verification method error:

  1. Perform a password reset via Incognito/InPrivate window using different devices and network services.
  2. If it doesn't work, wait exactly 48 hours to reset the password.
  3. If the issue persists, kindly wait exactly 1 week to perform another password reset. The idea is to wait for the account lock to expire first before you reset the password, as stated in this article: https://support.microsoft.com/account-billing/troubleshooting-verification-code-issues-409090c4-92b5-42b9-8ae6-bcc97e62fc48#:~:text=If%20you%20received%20a%20Microsoft%20verification%20code%20that%20you%20did#:~:text=If%20you%20received%20a%20Microsoft%20verification%20code%20that%20you%20did

Important: Please make sure not to attempt to sign in or reset the password within that timeframe (48 hours or 1 week), as this may reset the lock cooldown.

Thank you for your understanding! Please feel free to let me know if you need anything else.

Best regards,

Darhyl

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  1. AI answer

    2026-04-20T14:04:59.6266667+00:00

    The account is being temporarily blocked by Microsoft's security systems due to repeated verification attempts and high volume of code requests. Recovery must go through the automated flows; support and forums cannot directly unlock or bypass this.

    Use these steps, in order, and avoid repeated retries in between:

    1. Stop requesting new codes for at least 24 hours
      Multiple requests and sign-in attempts reset the protection timer and cause errors like "You've requested too many codes" or "temporary problem with this service."
      Wait at least 24 hours (up to several days if the issue persists) without trying to sign in, request codes, or submit recovery forms.
    2. Use the Sign-in Helper to unblock the Outlook.com account
      After the cooldown period, go to Unblock my Outlook.com account and start the Sign-in Helper:
      • Open the link: Sign-in Helper from a browser.
      • Follow the prompts to sign in with the Hotmail address and complete the verification steps.
        This is the supported path when an Outlook.com/Microsoft account is temporarily blocked due to unusual activity.
    3. If the account is fully locked (no “Next” button when signing in)
      If the sign-in page does not show Next and instead shows a lock message, follow the aka.ms link shown on that page and submit the reinstatement form.
      • Submit the form once and wait for email from Microsoft Online Safety support.
      • Do not submit multiple forms; that slows down review.
    4. Handle “Try another verification method” / method-specific blocks
      If the error is tied to the current verification method (the Googlemail address):
      • Try from a different network (e.g., switch from home Wi‑Fi to mobile data, or another Wi‑Fi).
      • Try from a different device and browser in InPrivate/Incognito mode.
      • If another verification method is listed (phone, alternate email, Microsoft Authenticator), choose that instead of the Googlemail option.
    5. If codes still fail or are rate-limited
      The verification system may block high-volume or suspicious traffic:
      • Do not keep requesting new codes; wait a full day before another attempt.
      • When trying again, request a single code and enter only the numbers in the body of the message, not the header.
      • If the system says "Try another verification method," follow the guidance above or wait longer (up to a week) before further attempts.
    6. If sign-in is still impossible after these steps
      Use the sign-in troubleshooter / account recovery flow referenced in the Outlook.com sign-in help:
      • Start from the Outlook.com sign-in help article and use the Start troubleshooter or sign-in troubleshooter link.
      • Complete the recovery form with as much accurate information as possible. If the daily limit is reached, wait until the next day before resubmitting.

    During this process, keep the Outlook app session on the phone active and do not sign out, as that is currently the only access to mail. All unlocking and recovery must go through the automated tools; agents and moderators cannot manually override the block.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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