Microsoft is preventing me from signing in using my password and I cannot access my information

Question

When I try to log into my personal Hotmail accounts, I get a Error 404 message. I cannot use the options (face-fingerprint-security key-smartphone) nor do I want to. When select the option to "send a code" to my alternative email, which is an AOL address, they never send a code. WHAT IS GOING ON? I have been worried that Microsoft is trying to force us to not use passwords but they make the mistake of assuming everyone uses smartphones or wants to use the other methods. I would accept a text message code to my phone but I cannot access the security settings in my account to enter my phone because I'm locked out! This is a vicious circle and Microsoft gave no warning they would do this. MY QUESTION: how do I get into my email accounts? This is very upsetting and frustrating.

Is there not an easier way to set up a PIN without purchasing a USB device? I don't even understand what they are trying to do here.

Sorry, but I am a "boomer" who uses plenty of technology in my work as a professor, but this is ridiculous. This is happening on my work (college) and personal laptops.

Answer 1

It sounds like you're experiencing significant difficulties accessing your Hotmail account. Here are some steps you can take to regain access:

1. Check Your Credentials: Ensure you are using the correct email address and password. Sometimes, personal and work accounts can be confused if they have similar names.
2. Use Alternative Recovery Options: If you are not receiving the code sent to your alternative email (AOL), you may want to check your spam or junk mail folder. If possible, try to use a different recovery option, such as a phone number if you have one associated with your account.
3. Contact Microsoft Support: Since you mentioned being locked out and unable to access security settings, you may need to contact Microsoft support directly for assistance. They can help you reset your password or verify your identity through other means. You can find the appropriate support contact for your region at Support for Business Products.
4. Consider Emergency Access: If this is a work account, check if your organization has a global admin who can assist you in regaining access. They may be able to reset your password or provide additional recovery options.
5. Prevent Future Lockouts: Once you regain access, consider setting up an emergency access account (break-glass account) to prevent future lockouts. This can be done through Microsoft Entra.

Regarding your concern about setting up a PIN without purchasing a USB device, Microsoft does offer various methods for authentication, but some may require hardware for enhanced security. If you prefer not to use those methods, you can continue using passwords and recovery options until you find a solution that works for you.

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References:

• Troubleshoot sign-in issues and account access problems
• Confirm that you're using the correct credentials to sign in

Answer 2

Hi. I'm Brian and I'll try to help.

Downdetector shows that a lot of people are having problems with Outlook.com this morning. See https://downdetector.com/status/outlook/. Microsoft is aware of the problem, as evidenced by seeing https://status.cloud.microsoft/m365/referrer=serviceStatusRedirect

Answer 3

Is this for a personal or an institutional account? When I'm asked about creating a passkey, there's always an option to continue with my password listed as "Other ways to sign in." However, passkeys are safer than passwords and I believe that eventually, passkeys will be mandatory.