Can’t use Microsoft authentication

Question

Microsoft Authenticator wants me to re log into my accounts as I have got a new phone. However when I put in my password it asks me to verify a code on Microsoft authentication which I cannot do since it is not logged into those accounts. Then it asks me to use a code on my outlook app, but to login to my outlook app I need to verify a code on Microsoft Authenticator. Please help me fix this

Answer 1

Hi Sam Cohen, I know how stressful it feels to be locked in a loop where every login asks for a code from an app you can’t access it’s like being locked out of your own digital life, and it can feel overwhelming when you just want to get back to your accounts.

To fix being locked out of Microsoft Authenticator on a new phone. first check if you had cloud backup enabled on your old device and if so sign in with the same Microsoft account on the new phone and choose Begin recovery to restore accounts automatically if backup wasn’t enabled use alternate verification methods such as SMS, recovery email, security questions, or backup codes, then go to https://account.live.com/proofs/manage to update or remove old authentication methods and add new ones, and once you regain access re add accounts to Authenticator by opening the app on your new phone, selecting Add a new sign‑in method Authenticator app in Outlook or Microsoft 365 security settings, and scanning the QR code to re link your accounts if you are completely locked out, submit the Microsoft Account Recovery Form at https://account.live.com/acsr with as much detail as possible so Microsoft support can verify ownership and reset authentication.

When you try to log in, do you see any option for SMS or email verification or is the system only offering Authenticator and Outlook app codes?

Best regards

Lucky Charm