Microsoft and their verification system

Question

Hi. So I'm creating my Microsoft work account (example: ___@___.___) using my existing email (___@___.___) for freelance work purposes. It's not tied to any company.

So I just reset my laptop and tried to access my work account through the Microsoft 365 app today, and it requires approval through Microsoft Authenticator. I haven't used that app in a while, but strangely, it didn't ask for Authenticator permission while last night I changed my work account password.

I want to sign in to the Authenticator app using my work account, but it's asking me for approval through the Authenticator app itself, which I tried to log in with using that work account. I tried to recover through SMS/call, but it's not working. The error code was '500121'.

What do I do now?

* Changed to a question

Answer 1

Hi Paul,

The solution you provide sill need me to log in with work account and still asking for codes from Authenticator app. I can't even have an access to my work account (Can't use my outlook account on admin center

Answer 2

Dear Reno Renown;

Good day! Thank you for posting to Microsoft Community. We are happy to help you.

Based on your description, I understand that you have a concern with "Microsoft and their verification system". 

I'm sorry to hear that you're having trouble accessing your professional account. Because your query is related to the Microsoft Authenticator app, we have a separate community team, so it is recommended to post through Microsoft Authenticator - Microsoft Q&A so that a support agent from that team can verify and provide you with the necessary information.

Basically, the error Code 500121 occurs when authentication failed as part of the multi-factor authentication (MFA) request, it may indicate a configuration or service error.

1. Have you tried resetting (require re-register) MFA? This I believe may resolve this as it will change the last command that you give to the authentication.
2. Have you tried signing out, forgetting the login, and choosing to login again and select "Other ways to sign in" the login using authenticator instead of the password.

Moreover, if still not able to login, you may need to unblock the account, go to Microsoft Entra Admin center > Security > Multifactor authentication > Block/unblock users. Click Unblock under the Action column for the affected user account.

At this time, your kind cooperation and understanding will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you very much for your precious time. Stay safe and healthy.