"Try another verification method" when trying to recover an account

Question

I’m trying to recover an old Hotmail account for which my current email is set as the recovery address. I still had access to the account around two months ago.

When I enter my recovery email, I receive a code and enter it into the prompt successfully. However, it then tells me that further verification is required. The only option available is to verify via phone.

I enter the last four digits of the phone number, which I know are correct, as the prompt even shows the final two digits, but I’m then presented with the error message shown below.

This puts me into an endless loop, and I’ve been attempting the recovery process every day for the past two weeks without any progress.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Please check if there is an alternative way to sign in on the Sign-in page or on the password screen. If such an option is available, please attempt another method to complete the sign-in. Also, try using another browser, device, or network like mobile data.

If you can sign in, or if the account is already signed in on a different device, please change your sign-in preference.

If this option is not available, please attempt to sign in again after 24 hours. Avoid making login attempts during these 24 hours. To ensure sufficient waiting time, it is recommended to extend the pause slightly. I also suggest trying to access your account using other devices or networks, such as mobile data.

If you still experience the same issue after 24 hours, your account may have been blocked due to suspicious activity. Please refer to this link: Unblock my Outlook.com account.

Also, try to fill out the Request for Account Reinstatement and Microsoft Recovery form to recover your account.

If you require further assistance, please don't hesitate to let me know.

Stay Safe!