when turn on computer this comes on Login.Microsoft.com/devise and type in number

Question

When I turn on computer this message comes up

login.microsoft.com/device I have 15 minutes to open browser and type in number provided with message. I have to press control,alt,delete open task manger and close it. windows open up with home screen. Is this safe to do or not. I haven't gone to browser and open Microsoft website required.

Answer 1

The behavior described should be treated with caution and not followed until the source is clearly verified.

Key points based on Microsoft guidance:

1. Unsolicited sign-in or verification prompts can indicate someone is trying to access an account or that a device/app is misconfigured.
   • Microsoft may legitimately ask for verification when signing in or using features that require identity verification, or when signing in from a new device. However, this should normally appear in the context of a sign-in action that was intentionally started.
2. Microsoft will not proactively provide unsolicited technical support or ask to perform unexpected actions outside a normal sign-in flow.
   • Any message that appears to “take over” the screen or pressures to act within a time limit should be treated with suspicion, especially if it appears at startup without intentionally starting a Microsoft sign-in.
3. If unsure whether a prompt is genuine, do not follow the instructions in the message.
   • Do not type codes or follow links from unexpected prompts.
   • Instead, open a browser manually and go directly to https://account.microsoft.com or https://account.live.com by typing the address, then sign in and check account activity.
4. If any verification codes or messages are received that were not requested, this may indicate someone else is trying to use the account.
   • Follow Microsoft’s guidance to help keep the account secure and review recent activity.
5. Tech support scams and fake security prompts are common.
   • Real Microsoft error or warning messages do not include phone numbers to call.
   • Microsoft and other legitimate companies do not cold call or pop up unsolicited support instructions.

Recommended actions:

1. Continue dismissing the prompt as done (e.g., via Task Manager) rather than entering the code or visiting the URL from the prompt.
2. Manually sign in to the Microsoft account via https://account.microsoft.com or https://account.live.com and:
   • Review recent sign-in activity.
   • Change the account password.
   • Ensure two-step verification is enabled and recovery info (phone/email) is correct.
3. Run a full security scan on the device using Windows Security to ensure there is no malware causing fake prompts.
4. If any message, email, or call asks for payment, remote access, or sensitive information in connection with these prompts, treat it as a scam and do not engage.

If the prompt persists and cannot be clearly tied to a legitimate sign-in scenario (for example, a known Microsoft app or device enrollment that was intentionally configured), contact trusted support channels directly rather than using any contact details or links shown in the prompt.

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References:

• Why is Microsoft texting me?
• Protect yourself from online scams and attacks
• Protect yourself from tech support scams
• Common problems with two-step verification for a work or school account

Answer 2

Hi Carol Cormier,

Thanks for your post. The page login.microsoft.com/device is a real Microsoft sign‑in page used for a feature called device code sign‑in. Microsoft uses it when an app or device you intentionally started needs you to confirm sign‑in from a browser within a short time window (often 10–15 minutes).

Important distinction:

• Legitimate when it appears after you start a sign‑in yourself (for example, signing into a Microsoft app, linking a device, or setting up a feature).
• Unexpected if it appears at Windows startup and you did not initiate any sign‑in.

Microsoft’s own guidance indicates that verification prompts should be tied to an action you start; unexpected prompts should be treated cautiously.

About question Is it safe to close it and ignore it? Yes. If you did not start a sign‑in, it is safe to dismiss the prompt (as you’ve been doing) and not enter the code. You should only enter a device code when you personally begin a sign‑in flow.

Recommended next steps

1. Do not enter the code unless you recognize the sign‑in request.
2. Open a browser manually and sign in at account.microsoft.com to review Recent activity.
3. If you see any sign‑ins you don’t recognize, change your password and ensure two‑step verification is on (from the same account site).
4. Run a full scan with Windows Security to rule out unwanted software causing repeated prompts.  

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