Password & Account Recovery

Fix Microsoft Account Error: We Cannot Send a Text Message to This Number

Phi Hung Vo Oct 15, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user is unable to receive an SMS verification code during Microsoft account recovery due to a system error rejecting the provided phone number.

How to Fix the Microsoft Account Error: We Cannot Send a Text Message to This Number

Product: Microsoft Account / Outlook.com
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to unblock or recover a locked Microsoft or Outlook.com account via SMS verification.
Observed behavior: Microsoft displays an error stating 'We cannot send a text message to this number', preventing the user from receiving the required security code.

Before you start

Check that your mobile phone has a strong network signal and ensure your cellular provider is not blocking automated shortcode messages from Microsoft.

Solution 1Recommended

Use an Alternative Mobile Phone Number

Since Microsoft does not require the verification number to be linked to the account, using a different phone number is the fastest way to bypass this error.

The phone number you provide to receive the security code does not need to be the one registered to your Microsoft account. You can use any valid mobile number that can receive SMS text messages, including a friend or family member's phone. This often bypasses unexpected regional or carrier restrictions.

Select an alternative number

Ask a trusted friend or family member if you can use their mobile number temporarily to receive the Microsoft verification code.

Enter the new number

On the Microsoft account recovery screen, input the alternative phone number and click the 'Send code' button.

Retrieve the security code

Check the alternative phone for the SMS text message from Microsoft containing the numeric security code.

Verify and unblock your account

Enter the received code into the verification field on your screen to complete the account recovery process.

Account Unblocked: Once verified, you will regain access to your account. It is highly recommended to update your account security settings and add multiple backup verification methods.

Solution 2

Submit a Microsoft Account Recovery Form

If you cannot use any phone number to receive the code, you will need to verify your identity using Microsoft's automated account recovery form.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Microsoft blocking my phone number from receiving texts?

Microsoft's automated security system may flag certain numbers due to unusual account activity, regional network restrictions, or if the number has been used too many times for verification recently. Additionally, your carrier might be blocking automated shortcode SMS messages.

Does the recovery phone number have to be linked to my Microsoft account?

No. When attempting to unlock a Microsoft account, the mobile number you provide for the security code does not need to be associated with your account profile. Any active mobile number that can successfully receive SMS texts will work.

What should I do if my account remains locked after SMS verification?

If completing the SMS verification does not resolve the lock, the system may require additional time to lift the block. You may need to wait 24 hours before trying again, or fill out the Microsoft Account Recovery form to verify your identity through other provided methods.

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