How do I get out of circle of authentication questions that do not work

Derek Robinson 0 Reputation points
2026-04-24T19:17:49.7433333+00:00

I am trying to set up a new computer. I old password did not work. So I created a new one then tried to login again.The 2FA system sent message to my cell phone, it did not arrive, the 2FA system sent message to my email address it did not arrive.

I tried [https://account.microsoft.com/security](https://account.microsoft.com/security

)

Same circle of insanity as above.

I gave up on setting up new machine. I will return it. I then tried to login to desktop using new password. The 2FA system sent message to my cell phone, it did not arrive, the 2FA system sent message to my email address it did not arrive. I am now locked out of Microsoft on desk top. Only old laptop works and evenutually it will ask me to reauthenticate and I will be locked out.

Called ‪(800) 642-7676‬ from microsft website. Site says live agent will talk to me. I got the message "Goodbye"

Can microsoft help me or is this a sign to say goodbye. I want to stay will you so please give me a number of someone to call that does not say goodbye to me. A real human is required at this point. Thank you for your help.

Microsoft Security | Microsoft Authenticator
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  1. AI answer

    2026-04-24T19:18:09.7966667+00:00

    To break out of the verification loop and reach a real person, use these supported options:

    1. Use the sign-in helper for account issues
      • Go to the Microsoft sign-in helper tool: use the Sign-in helper link provided in the verification-code troubleshooting article.
      • Follow the prompts for “Can’t sign in” to identify the issue and see the available support options for the account.
    2. Try alternative verification methods and networks
      • If multiple verification methods are configured (SMS, alternate email, authenticator, etc.), choose a different method than the one that is failing.
      • Switch networks (for example, from home Wi‑Fi to mobile data, or a different Wi‑Fi) and try again. Blocks can be tied to a specific network.
      • Avoid repeated attempts in a short time; too many requests can trigger or extend a temporary block. Waiting up to 24 hours (and, if needed, up to a week) can allow an automated block to clear.
    3. If verification codes never arrive
      • If codes are not received on any method, follow the guidance in the verification-code troubleshooting article and, where possible, choose another method or wait until the configured phone/email is accessible.
      • Support agents are not allowed to send verification codes, password reset links, or directly change account details, so all recovery must go through the automated flows.
    4. Use the account recovery form if locked out
      • If locked out and normal sign-in fails, complete the Microsoft account recovery form (as described in the Q&A guidance) with as much accurate information as possible to verify ownership.
    5. Contact Microsoft Support and request a human agent
      • For technical support, use Contact Microsoft Support from the verification-code troubleshooting article.
      • Enter the problem (for example, “recover account” or “verification code not received”) and select Get Help.
      • If automated suggestions do not resolve the issue, select Contact Support to be routed to the best support option (chat or callback from a live agent).
      • Alternatively, use the customer service phone numbers page from the Q&A guidance to locate the correct regional support number and follow the prompts until connected to an agent.

    These are the supported paths to both resolve the verification loop and reach a real person when self-service options are not sufficient.


    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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