Use the Microsoft Sign-in Helper first. It is the primary recovery path for a hacked Microsoft account and can either provide self-help steps or offer the option to talk to an agent.
If access is still blocked, follow this order:
- Scan the PC for malware before changing anything
- Open Windows Security.
- Go to Virus and threat protection.
- Select Scan options > Full scan > Scan now.
- This matters because Microsoft recommends a full scan before changing the password.
- Try to change or reset the password
- If sign-in still works anywhere, change the password immediately.
- If sign-in does not work, use the password reset flow.
- If the verification options are no longer recognized, use the account recovery path
- If two-step verification is not turned on and the listed recovery email or phone is not recognized, use the Sign-in Helper.
- If completing the Microsoft account recovery form, a working email address is required so Microsoft can respond about the request. Microsoft states it can be any active email account that is accessible.
- If two-step verification was turned on and none of the alternate verification methods are accessible
- Microsoft states support agents cannot send password reset links or access and change account details.
- After regaining access, review account settings
- Check connected accounts, forwarding, and automatic replies, because Microsoft may reset some settings after compromise.
For suspicious Microsoft account emails, messages from the domain @accountprotection.microsoft.com are valid Microsoft account notifications.