Recover password when using 2 step authorization

Question

I cannot access my live email account after the recent Apple software update; I do not remember my password and when I request a reset, I am asked to either use the Authenticator app or supply last four of my phone number. A while back, again after a software update, I was logged out of the Authenticator app and now it does not recognize my email account at all. And because I do not remember my password, even if it did recognize my email address, I would not be able to sign in...again because of the password issue. I have tried to recover my password but that is not working because I signed up for 2 step authorization. The auto email I receive is stating a request was made but it is being ignored because I signed up for the 2 step authorization. So now, I am in this frustrating loop where I can not get any help because I do not remember the passwords. I created a new email account because I could not contact customer support without signing into my account...which I don't have the password for....is there any way I will be able to access my old email account? I have had it for 10+ years so there is quite a bit of information on there I need. I read that I will be asked detailed questions to gain access to my account but unless I can get help (from a person) on how to fix the 2 step authorization, I'm not sure I can fix this on my own.

Answer 1

Hello Michelle,

Thank you for letting me know, I'm sorry you could not find the code.

Please continue to excercise patience, I know it can be frustrating.

Many thanks, Ibhadighi

Answer 2

I was not able to find the 25 character code; I had recorded a "unique Microsoft" key but it was not 25 characters and I'm not sure where this key would be helpful at this point. I have decided to wait the 30 days and replace my security information. At least that is an option.

Thanks very much for your help

Answer 3

I appreciate your clarification and your understanding of the security aspect.

The only option that I can suggest at this point is to try to find your 25-character recovery code, which is a code that you should have received when you set up two-step verification. You may have printed it, saved it on a file, or written it down somewhere. I really hope you can find it so you can use it to sign in to your account and reset your password.

If you can’t find your recovery code, then I’m sorry you may have to wait for the 30 days to replace your security info.

Once again, I’m sorry for the inconvenience this has caused you, hopefully you will be able to find the recovery code before the 30 days.

Many thanks, Ibhadighi

Answer 4

Thanks for your reply.

I have tried the password reset you linked. When I am asked to send a code, I choose my phone # which I do verify. I am then directed to answer several questions about myself. I then receive an email from Microsoft telling me because I have the 2 step authorization, they will not be contacting me further; they are sending me an email as a courtesy.

When I choose "I have none of these" they ask for a 25 character recovery code. I am looking for that as I write but haven't had any luck with that either. There is an option to replace my security info but that takes 30 days. If I knew that would get me back into my account, I would take that option and manage for the month. If there is no guarantee I will get back in, I don't want to do that because I can still access this account on my phone and other device. It's getting in on my laptop that is the issue.

I am receiving these emails on a gmail account that I had previously used for account recovery. The main problem started when the authenticator app kicked me out (after a software update) and I realized I didn't have the password. I had tried to look it up while I was signed on to my account but to change a password, you need the old on.

I will also clarify - I understand the security aspect of this and it is completely my fault for not keeping track of my password better.

Answer 5

Hello Michelle,

I'm Ibhadighi and I’d happily help you with your question. In this forum, we are Microsoft consumers just like yourself.

I’m sorry to hear that you are having trouble with your live email account.

It seems that you have enabled two-step verification for your account, which requires you to use the Authenticator app or your phone number to sign in. However, if you don’t have access to either of these options, you can still try to reset your password by using another email address or answering some security questions.

To do this, please follow these steps: • Go to https://account.live.com/password/reset and enter your live email address. • Select “I forgot my password” and click “Next”. • Select “I don’t have any of these” when asked how you want to get your security code. • Enter another email address that you can access and click “Next”. • Check your email for a verification code from Microsoft and enter it on the next page. • Answer some security questions about your account and provide as much information as possible. • If your identity is verified, you will be able to create a new password for your live email account.

For reference; https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/outlook_com/forum/all/how-to-verify-account-without-a-phone-number/4b98eb34-e4e1-4073-bd53-32f557b0c37f

I hope this helps.

Best Regards, IBHADIGHI