Try another verification method and unable to use account recovery form

Question

Hi, I am currently locked out of my Hotmail account. When I try to reset the password and even after I leave it a few days it still won't send texts through to my verified phone numbers because the account is blocked. I am being met with the try another method message every time. Following this I filled out the account recovery form, which came back with an automatic email saying nothing could be done because I have two factor authentication switched on. Since it won't let me log back in using two factor authentication and keeps showing an error message in stead, I want to know how best to get into my account

Answer 1

Hi kate,

Thank you for sharing your question. I understand how annoying it is to get locked out of your Hotmail, especially when you have 2FA on and can't use the recovery form. I am here to help.

This usually happens because Microsoft’s security blocks password resets if you mess up a bunch of times or log in weirdly. When 2FA is on, the account recovery form isn’t there, so you gotta use one of the ways to verify it that you set up for 2FA.

To fix it, try this,

Wait a day or two without trying anything else, since trying over and over can make the block last longer.

Use a private browser window and try logging in from a device or network you know is safe.

If you can still get into your account on any device, like a phone, use it to change or turn off your 2FA settings and add other ways to get it back.

If none of those verification things work, and you don’t have a recovery code, send in a Microsoft Account Reinstatement form at this link. It’s not the normal recovery form, and it's for accounts that got blocked. They’ll usually get back to you in a few days.

 

I hope this helps.

 

Best Regards,

Noel

Answer 2

Unfortunately, I don’t think there is an answer because I haven’t been able to access my account for over four months now, I’ve tried every suggestion offered from support waiting a week wait a month, different browser Wi-Fi mobile data use a VPN you name it I’ve tried it. My phone number which is set up for two factor verification has been linked to my account for over 15 years I just have a new device. I’ve been going round in endless loops with chat support. When setting up new Outlook email account I can’t add my number for two factor verification same error message this verification method can’t be used right now, when speaking to support and mentioning this, must be a technical issue on their end some sort of block on my phone number was just told to enter a different number. Good luck I hope you find an answer and please share if you do.