Someone changed my Microsoft linked email to theirs

Question

It has been 2 months since i noticed that the email attached to my Microsoft account (not this one) has been changed to someone else's. I have no idea on who he/she is, but the only evidence that I currently have is the hacker's email address, and an email notification stated that the email attached to my Microsoft account has been changed. I know that it's a bit too late since I noticed this happen. But I am really hoping that someone can answer my question and help me to get my Microsoft account back from the hacker. Is there any possible way?

As you can see, that particular email address (******@gmail.com) is not mine, it's the hacker's

[Moderator note: Personal information removed]

and this is the evidence that I have to state that my email address from my Microsoft account had been changed

Answer 1

Hi @AripGallagher,

Thank you for reaching out to the Microsoft Q&A. I am sorry to hear that you are going through this difficult and stressful situation. The good news is that it is still possible to get your account back, even after two months.

When a hacker has control of your account for over two months and has changed your primary email, they have effectively seized ownership. Due to the nature of this situation, where the security information has been altered, the only method to recover the account is through the Microsoft Account Recovery Form.

Note: For security and privacy reasons, Microsoft Support agents cannot see your account details, reset your password, or change your security information for you. The recovery process is fully automated and relies on the information you provide to prove ownership.

Here is the step-by-step guidance on how to fill out the form:

Step 1: Go to: https://account.live.com/acsr to access the form

Step 2: Fill out the Recovery Form carefully: The form will then ask you to prove you are the original owner. Be patient and provide as much accurate information as you can. The more you provide, the higher your chance of success.

You can get guidance on how to complete the form here: Help with the Microsoft account recovery form

Step 3: After submitting the form, you will receive an email at the contact email you provided (not the hacked account) with a case reference number. The review process can take up to 24-48 hours.

You can submit the recovery form up to two times per day. If your first submission is rejected, do not be discouraged. Try to remember more details and submit the form again. Each attempt is a new opportunity to provide the system with enough information to verify your identity.

Step 4: Eventually, if you have tried the recovery form multiple times without success, your next step is to attempt to contact Microsoft Support directly. While front-line support agents cannot reset your password or change your account details directly, but they may be able to put a suspension on your compromised account to prevent further misuse

1. Go to the Microsoft Contact Us page.
2. Sign in with a temporary or alternative Microsoft account if prompted.
3. In the search bar, type "Hacked Account."
4. At the bottom of the page, click on "Contact Support."
5. Select "Other products" and then "Manage account security."
6. You should be presented with options to chat with a support agent or request a call back.

For more details, you can also review this Microsoft official article: How to recover a hacked or compromised Microsoft account - Microsoft Support

I hope these steps provide some immediate relief and guidance. I recognize the importance of your email account to you, and I'm here to help you through these troubleshooting steps.

Please let me know how these suggestions work for you, or if you'd like assistance in navigating Microsoft's support channels.

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