Why do my new emails all get put in my DELETED folder instead of in my INBOX. "HOTMAIL"

Julie Clodfelter 40 Reputation points
2026-06-18T13:16:52.1933333+00:00

I don't know how my hotmail account got changed, but all of my new emails are going straight into my DELETED folder instead of INBOX>

Outlook | Web | Outlook.com | Email
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Answer accepted by question author
Burak VAROL 946 Reputation points
2026-06-18T13:41:46.62+00:00

Hi @Julie Clodfelter ,

Based on the information and tags provided, I suggest checking the following:

  1. Inbox rules: Go to "Settings → Mail → Rules" in Outlook.com and review any rules that move or delete messages. Remove or disable anything that sends emails to Deleted Items.
    https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/outlook/mail/manage-email-messages-by-using-rules-in-outlook
  2. Sweep - Automatic cleanup: If you’ve used Sweep, it can automatically delete or move incoming messages from specific senders. Review and clear any sweep actions.
    https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/outlook/organize-your-inbox-with-archive-sweep-and-other-tools-in-outlook-on-the-web
  3. Other clients or devices: If your account is configured in another email client, a rule, filter or action there could move or delete messages after delivery. Certain security software may also impact mail handling.
  4. Account security: If settings changed unexpectedly, review recent activity and secure your account (change password, enable 2FA).
    https://account.live.com/Activity
    https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/accounts-billing/security/what-is-the-recent-activity-page
  5. Ignore conversation: Also check if the "Ignore conversation" feature was enabled, as it can automatically move related emails to Deleted Items.
    https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/troubleshoot/outlook/email-management/message-automatically-moved-deleted-items-folder

If the issue persists after these checks, you may also consider contacting Microsoft Support to further investigate any potential sync or server-side issues.

Regards,
Burak V.

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Answer accepted by question author
Antonino Schiliró 160 Reputation points
2026-06-18T13:33:52.1133333+00:00

Have you looked into your Mailbox Rules? (outlook web -> gear icon / settings -> E-Mail -> Rules

If there are some rules you did not create, delete them.

I have seen this several times after accounts got compromised.

Please also make sure to enable multi factor authentication if you haven't done it already. https://mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info -> add MS Authenticator for authentication.

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