Outlook account locked me out and can't get code on my old number

Question

Please help my account locked me out says for security reasons and sends code to my old number which i currently have no access to, and when i try to verify online it fails.

Answer 1

Hi,

Do you have access to another verification method, such as an alternate email address or an authenticator app?

On the page where it asks for a verification code, click 'Show more verification methods' and send the code to another available method, if any.

If not, on the next page, click I dont have any of these. After clicking that, you will be prompted to complete the information needed to confirm that the account owner is making this sensitive change. Once your account is verified, you will be able to update your security information.

If you have recently made a sensitive security change, your account may be placed in a restricted state for 30 days.

This is done to protect you and alert you in case the security information was changed by someone without your permission. See: https://support.microsoft.com/account-billing/what-does-security-info-change-is-still-pending-mean-cbd0f64f-02d9-45d2-90c3-2375e5a72e52#:~:text=While%20we%20understand%20this%2030,phone%20number%20or%20email%20address

Answer 2

If your Outlook account is locked and you cannot receive the verification code because you no longer have access to your old phone number, here are some steps you can take:

1. Use the Account Recovery Form: Go to the Microsoft account recovery page and fill out the form with as much accurate information as possible. This may include details about recent emails, contacts, and other account-related information that can help verify your identity.
2. Try Alternative Recovery Options: If you have set up other recovery methods (like an alternate email address), try using those to receive the verification code.
3. Wait for the Lockout Period: If you have made multiple unsuccessful attempts to access your account, Microsoft may temporarily lock it. Typically, this lockout period lasts about 24 hours. Avoid further attempts during this time to prevent resetting the cooldown.
4. Contact Microsoft Support: If you are still unable to regain access, consider reaching out to Microsoft Support for assistance. You can explain your situation and see if they can provide additional help.

Remember, account recovery is automated for security reasons, and support agents cannot manually unlock accounts.

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References:

• Locked out of my Outlook account and recovery options not working - Microsoft Q&A
• My Microsoft account is blocked. - Microsoft Q&A