Stuck in an Microsoft Authenticator App loop when trying to update an old backup email address

Question

I used to have the Microsoft Authenticator app on my phone, when I upgraded it got deleted.

I want to update my recovery email address (not my main one) but when I log into Hotmail and try to change it, its asking me to approve a sign-in request on my Microsoft Authenticator App but when I re-installed the App on my new iPhone the app asked me to add an account, so I select 'Personal' then I'm given the option of either scanning a QR code or signing in with Microsoft. As I can't find a QR code I select 'Sign in with Microsoft'.

So I select my personal account, enter password, but then the Authenticator app asks to verify my identity using either the authenticator app that I can't get into, a verification code from my mobile app (whatever that is) or send it to my old email address that I no longer have! Arghhh. Can anybody help as I'm going round in circles!

Thanks

Answer 1

Hi Louie,

I followed the steps and I think I did it correctly? It's now saying to wait 30days for the info to be updated.

Should I delete the authenticator app now as this looks like it'll change my backup email address? If so, whats the best way to do this as it has my personal account on it (but doesnt work).

Thanks

Paul

Answer 2

Thank you for getting back to us and letting us know the status of your concern, Paul. We truly admire your efforts in getting through the steps and be able to work on it.

We’re glad to know that you’re able to update the security information of your account. For now, we’d advice you to wait until the 30-day period to be completed before you delete the authenticator app. Given that it still has your account on it, and it won’t work in the verification process. This is just to make sure that the account is updated before other changes will be applied.

Should you have other concerns that we can attend to, don’t hesitate to let us know.

Have a great day and stay safe.

Regards.

Louie Del

Answer 3

Hello I need some help , I’m also stuck in some kind of loop!

I need to log into my university email. It says when I log in my computer to Outlook 356, that I need to “approve sign in request” , and to do that I need to “open your Microsoft Authenticator app and approve the request to sign in.”

However when I go on my app, it says the exact same thing after I put in my university email.

What am I suppose to do?? If the Authenticator app is saying the same thing .

now i’m stuck in this loop.

Answer 4

Hey! I am experiencing the same problem with my university account. I am stuck in a loop. Have you managed to possibly find a solution yet?

Answer 5

I’m having the same issue! Any luck figuring it out?