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

Hello, I am experiencing the exact same problem with my university account, were you able to solve the problem? Thanks!

Answer 2

Google backup saves my contacts for the account but I had sign up for a new Microsoft email account which never would sink with the old account even throw they were the same address. So at that point I just gave up trying.

Answer 3

I was having this issue too and it was driving me insane!...

I was not able to pick up the phone call when I tried to select that option through the app. Instead, I tried to login from my desktop and used the call option. It worked that time and then removed my old phone from devices. Then I went to "Additional security information" where you can access the QR code and use the mobile app to scan. Thank god...

Answer 4

I deleted the app and reinstalled it, now it won’t allow me to sign into my account, I have to make “new” accounts every time I try to fix it. I’ve now been locked out of my main messenger app and your Authenticator isn’t allowing me to log in any existing accounts, they all claim to be new. I want to remove the Authenticator from my Discord and any other apps because it honestly sucks so much that it won’t allow me to use them. Is there a way to remove it or something so I can get my account back since your app won’t generate a passcode for it?

Answer 5

Contact your internet provider that you have your original email with. Only they can fix this.