Managing personal Outlook.com account settings, security, and privacy
- Clean the device first. Before changing anything, run a full antivirus or Windows Defender scan on the PC. Microsoft recommends doing this before changing the password.
- If still signed in anywhere, change the password immediately. Go to the Microsoft account Security basics page and select Change password. Use a strong new password.
- Review recent activity right away. On Security basics, select Review activity and check the Recent activity page. For any sign-in that was not legitimate:
- In Unusual activity, expand it and select This wasn't me.
- In Recent activity, expand it and select Secure your account.
- Check whether the attacker changed account settings. After regaining access, review:
- connected accounts
- forwarding
- automatic replies
- If sign-in no longer works, use Microsoft’s recovery flow. Start with the Microsoft Sign-in Helper. It can provide self-help steps or offer the option to talk to an agent.
- If password reset options now point to an address that is not recognized, use the account recovery form guidance. Microsoft states that when the listed verification email or phone options are not recognized and two-step verification is not enabled, the Sign-in Helper should be used first. The recovery form requires a working email address that can receive Microsoft’s reply.
- If two-step verification was turned on and none of the alternate verification methods are accessible, Microsoft support cannot reset it. In that case, support agents are not allowed to send password reset links or change account details.
- Add another sign-in or verification method after recovery. On Advanced security options, select Add a new way to sign in or verify and make sure recovery phone numbers or email addresses are current.
- If more help is needed, use Contact Support. Microsoft Support provides a Get Help flow and Contact Support option for technical support.
- How to recover a hacked or compromised Microsoft account
- How to recover a hacked or compromised Microsoft account
- What happens if there's an unusual sign-in to your account
- Check the recent sign-in activity for your Microsoft account
- Help with the Microsoft account recovery form
- How to help keep your Microsoft account secure