Reset Authenticator app for global Admin user

Question

Microsoft Windows 11 IOT Enterprise LTSC was added to Microsoft domine under company name.

Issue: Unable to access as Global Admin is unknown and needs to reset to specific our team member to have access to Authenticator app and become Global Admin for Microsoft license pool/domine.

Please suggest process, reset and redirect/re-register Global Admin

Answer 1

Hello Salam,

Thank you for explaining the situation.

If another Global Administrator in your organization can still sign in, please ask that administrator to reset the authentication methods for the affected Global Admin account:

• Signing in to the Microsoft Entra Admin Center
• Navigating to Users > Your Account > Authentication methods  
• Selecting Require re-register MFA  

The affected user should then be prompted to register Microsoft Authenticator again during the next sign-in. An administrator with the appropriate permissions can manage user authentication methods and require MFA re-registration

However, if the original Global Administrator is unknown and no Global Administrator can currently access the tenant, this is considered a tenant lockout. In that situation, you will need to contact Microsoft’s Data Protection team. This team has the authority and the specific security procedures to verify your identity as the legitimate owner of the account and then reset your MFA settings from their end. Please try to find the related hotline number to call the frontline and let them raise a ticket for you: Customer service phone numbers - Microsoft Support    

Here are some tips and an example of a prompt to help you navigate the IVR more effectively:  

(When you call the support number, you may hear an introduction of about 30 seconds such as "you can visit the link...". You can ignore this introduction and wait until you are presented with the options. Then press "1" as a business email user, and again "1" for technical help.)    

In some regions, the initial interaction may be automated, so here’s a general idea of how the conversation might go to help you prepare:      

• What kind of problem are you experiencing?         
• Answer: Authenticator         
• What products do you use?         
• Answer: Office 365 for business         
• Is this for an education or company account?         
• Answer: For companies         
• Are you an administrator?         
• Answer: Yes         
• Are there any other administrators in your organization?         
• Answer: No. I am the only admin in my tenant          
• Do you need a... Service request?          
• Answer: Yes. I need to create a ticket. Please send me direct to the Data Protection Teams.      

I also recommend calling during business hours. In my experience, it can be difficult to get through to the correct support queue, and automated systems don't always work as expected. If you can't get through on your first try, I suggest trying again later or at a different time.

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If you are unable to reach support via the phone numbers, there is a workaround you might consider: You can register for a new Microsoft 365 tenant by signing up for a trial subscription here: Microsoft 365 Business Plans and Pricing | Microsoft 365    

Once the new tenant is created, you can access the admin center and submit a support ticket from there, requesting to speak with the Data Protection Team on behalf of your original tenant.    

Important notes:     

• This new trial tenant will not give you access to any of the data or settings in your original locked tenant. It is solely a temporary means to contact Microsoft support.    
• The resolution time might be longer as you are contacting support from a different tenant.    
• Remember to cancel the trial subscription for the new tenant once your issue with the original account is resolved to avoid any unintended charges: Cancel your Microsoft business subscription in the Microsoft 365 admin center | Microsoft Learn

I hope the information provided helps guide you in the right direction. Although I’m unable to take direct action, I sincerely hope that the steps and recommendations I’ve shared can support you through the process.  

Warm regards, 

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