I can't unlock an account

Question

I had to create this account just to be able to post my issue:

Yesterday, my main account got blocked because for some reason it "violated Microsoft Services Agreement". Is important to say that I barely use that account, and I just uploaded an Excel File on my OneDrive an shared it with some friends to work on it.

I'm trying to unlock it, following all system's steps by giving a phone number to get a code, but I never received a code. Then I tried it once more and the next message appeared: "Try another verification method. That verification method isn't working right now. Please try another method."

I kept following the steps of the system and takes me back to provide the phone number for the code that will never arrive because of "Try another verification method. That verification method isn't working right now. Please try another method."

I'm trapped in that endless loop.

I'm trying to contact Microsoft Support but I had no success.

Could anyone give me a suggest? That file that I have in OneDrive is extremely important for me to recover, and my friends who have access to the file, aren´t able to open it anymore because my account is blocked.

Answer 1

Hey there! Nice to meet you!

The error message, "Try another verification method" is an indication that your account is temporarily blocked due to the system detecting unusual activity.

You will need to perform these steps to fix the verification method error:

1. Perform a password reset via Incognito/InPrivate window using different devices and network services.
2. If it doesn't work, wait exactly 48 hours to perform another password reset.

Important: Please make sure not to attempt to sign in or reset the password within that timeframe (48 hours), as this may reset the lock cooldown.

You may check the official Microsoft article regarding account blocks, particularly the "I see a Try another verification method message" tab: https://support.microsoft.com/account-billing/troubleshooting-verification-code-issues-409090c4-92b5-42b9-8ae6-bcc97e62fc48#:~:text=If%20you%20received%20a%20Microsoft%20verification%20code%20that%20you%20did#:~:text=If%20you%20received%20a%20Microsoft%20verification%20code%20that%20you%20did

Lastly, account blocking is a fully automated security measure. Microsoft Support will not be able to assist you as stated in this article, that they are not permitted to send password resets, access, or even change any details on the account:

https://support.microsoft.com/account-billing/help-with-the-microsoft-account-recovery-form-b19c02d1-a782-dee6-93c3-dc8113b20c42

Thank you for your understanding! Please feel free to let me know if you need anything else.

Best regards,

Darhyl

Answer 2

It sounds like you're facing a frustrating situation with your Microsoft account being blocked and the verification process not working. Here are some steps you can take to try to resolve this issue:

1. Wait and Retry: Sometimes, Microsoft temporarily locks accounts due to suspicious activity or multiple failed sign-in attempts. It may be beneficial to wait for about 24 hours before trying to log in again. Avoid making further attempts during this time to prevent resetting the cooldown period.
2. Use Alternative Recovery Methods: If the phone verification method isn't working, see if there are other recovery options available, such as email verification or security questions, if you have set those up previously.
3. Account Recovery Form: If you haven't already, try filling out the Account Recovery Form to verify your identity and regain access to your account. Make sure to provide as much accurate information as possible to help with the verification process.
4. Contact Microsoft Support: Since you've mentioned difficulty contacting support, consider trying different methods such as using a different device or network to access support. You can also try reaching out through social media channels like Twitter (@MicrosoftHelps) for assistance.
5. Check for Service Issues: Occasionally, Microsoft services may experience outages or issues. Check the Microsoft service status page to see if there are any ongoing issues that might be affecting account recovery.

If these steps do not resolve your issue, you may need to wait for Microsoft to respond to your recovery requests or provide further assistance.

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References:

• Why can't I log in to my Outlook account? - Microsoft Q&A
• My Microsoft account is blocked. - Microsoft Q&A