How to prevent a former friend from attempting to access my Microsoft account

Question

I keep getting a text with a verification code but I am not trying to get into my account. A former friend had access in the past and I believe she is still trying to gain access now how can I prevent this from happening in the first place besides not giving out the code that come to my phone?

Answer 1

To prevent a former friend from attempting to access your Microsoft account, you should take the following steps:

1. Change Your Password: Immediately change your Microsoft account password to something strong and unique. This will prevent anyone who may have known your old password from accessing your account.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): If you haven't already, enable two-factor authentication on your Microsoft account. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a verification code sent to your phone or email whenever someone tries to log in.
3. Review Security Information: Check your account's security information to ensure that only your current phone numbers and email addresses are listed. Remove any that are outdated or that you do not recognize.
4. Monitor Account Activity: Regularly check your account activity for any unauthorized access. If you notice anything suspicious, take immediate action.
5. Contact Support: If you continue to receive verification codes without attempting to log in, consider contacting Microsoft support for assistance.

By following these steps, you can enhance the security of your Microsoft account and prevent unauthorized access.

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References:

• Microsoft account security
• Authentication methods in Microsoft Entra ID - phone options