Cannot get an account verified through the mobile messages to reset account password and login to a PC

Justin P 0 Reputation points
2026-03-09T22:16:23.7+00:00

Hello, the verification system does not seem to be working through microsoft. I have a customer who has been locked out of their PC because a pin was added to the account which they do not know what the pin is. Also, they don't know what the password is to log in to their account. When trying to reset the password, there is only one verification method which is their cell phone. When I attempted to send the authorization code, it returned a message saying that this method is unavailable right now, please try back another time or use another verification method. I contacted support, they told me to wait 24 hours, after 25 hours I tried again, still nothing. Then we waited 72 hours, still got the same message. Contacted support again because we would have to buy either a new SSD or a new device (due to bitlocker) as a whole for him to have a working computer at this point. Support informed me that the "servers are down and they are working to resolve the issue." I'd like to know if there was any other way to reset the password because he can't access any important documents.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Accounts, profiles, and login
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  1. AI answer

    2026-03-09T22:16:40.2866667+00:00

    Based on the provided information, the only supported options are to:

    1. Try a different verification method or network if any are available
      • If the account has more than one verification method configured (alternate email, another phone, authenticator app), select a different method when prompted.
      • If the block is tied to the current method or network, switch between Wi‑Fi and cellular data or use a different network, then retry.
      • If the phone is blocking texts from unknown numbers, adjust the phone’s SMS settings and try again.
    2. Avoid repeated attempts and wait out any blocks
      • Excessive or repetitive requests to the same phone number or email can cause a temporary or even permanent block on that verification method.
      • When the message says the method is unavailable and support has advised to wait, do not keep retrying frequently; this can reset the time lock. Guidance is to wait at least 24 hours, and if still blocked, wait longer (up to a week) before trying again.
    3. Use the sign‑in helper and recovery form where possible
      • For sign‑in issues, use the sign‑in helper: Sign-in helper to identify the problem and see available options.
      • If the account is a Microsoft consumer account and the normal reset path fails, complete the account recovery form at the official recovery site and follow the guidance in “Help with the Microsoft account recovery form” (as referenced in the Q&A examples). If the form is rejected or the daily limit is reached, it is necessary to wait until the next day before submitting again.
    4. Understand support limitations
      • To protect the account and its contents, Microsoft support agents cannot send verification codes, password reset links, or directly change account details. They also cannot override automated account‑recovery decisions.
      • If verification codes are not being received and no other verification method is configured, the documented guidance is to either choose another method (if any exist) or wait until the configured phone or email becomes usable again. If that never happens, recovery may not be possible.
    5. If the account is locked or blocked
      • If the account is locked due to suspicious activity or terms‑of‑use violations and the sign‑in page shows an aka.ms link, follow that link and submit the requested information. A Microsoft Online Safety agent will review the request and respond by email. Do not submit multiple forms, as that can slow the process.
    6. If still stuck
      • If verification codes continue not to arrive and no alternate method is available, there is no additional supported technical path in the provided documentation beyond:
        • Waiting out any temporary blocks while avoiding repeated attempts.
        • Using the sign‑in helper and recovery form from a familiar device and location.
        • Contacting Microsoft Support via the documented “Contact Microsoft Support” flow for further guidance, understanding they cannot bypass verification or unlock the account manually.

    Because BitLocker is enabled and the account password and verification cannot be recovered, the documentation does not provide a supported way to access the encrypted data without successful account verification or the BitLocker recovery key.


    References:

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