Xbox PC app makes me change my Microsoft account password every day.

Question

Everytime I launch a Microsoft game it makes me login to my Microsoft account through Xbox. I put in my account credentials correctly but every time it says I must recover my account because it's been locked due to too many failed attempts. I never put incorrect account info in and yet it still makes me change my password. Every. Day. I installed the Microsoft authenticator app to try to use that to login but it has the same result, makes me change my password.

Answer 1

Experiencing frequent account lockouts and being prompted to change your password can be frustrating. Here are some steps you can take to address this issue when using Microsoft games and services:

Check for Suspicious Activity:

• It's possible that someone might be attempting to access your account with incorrect credentials, leading to the lockouts. Review your account activity and any recent security notifications to ensure there is no unauthorized access.

Password Complexity and Strength:

• Make sure your password meets Microsoft's password requirements. It should be complex, with a combination of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters.
• Avoid using easily guessable information like common words, birthdays, or names.
• Consider using a passphrase, which is a longer and more secure combination of words.
• Don't reuse passwords across multiple accounts.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):

• If you haven't already, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your Microsoft account. This adds an extra layer of security, and even if someone has your password, they would still need your second factor (typically a code from an authenticator app) to access your account.

Review Connected Apps:

• Check if there are any third-party apps or services that have access to your Microsoft account. Revoke access to any apps that you don't recognize or trust.

Account Recovery Information:

• Ensure your account recovery information (alternate email addresses and phone numbers) are up to date. This information can be crucial in case you need to recover your account.

Contact Microsoft Support:

• If the issue persists and you're certain that you are entering the correct credentials, it's a good idea to contact Microsoft Support. They can help investigate the issue and possibly unlock your account.

Device Issues:

• Sometimes, issues with the device you're using can lead to repeated account lockouts. Ensure that your device is secure and free from malware or keyloggers.

Password Managers:

• If you use a password manager, make sure it's not autofilling incorrect credentials or causing login issues.

Avoid Repeated Login Attempts:

• When you receive a lockout notification, avoid making repeated login attempts immediately. Wait for some time before trying again, especially if you are certain you are entering the correct information. This prevents further lockouts due to multiple failed attempts.

Consider an Email Alias:

• You can create an email alias for your Microsoft account, which can be used for login. This can help isolate issues related to login attempts on your primary email address.

If the problem persists after trying these steps, contacting Microsoft Support is likely your best course of action. They can provide more personalized assistance and help resolve the issue with your account.