Fix Outlook Alias Error: Address Already Used as Security Information
Question details
The user is unable to add an existing email address as an Outlook alias because it is already registered as security information for their Microsoft account.
- Product
- Microsoft Outlook
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Trying to add a second email address as an alias to a Microsoft account.
- Observed behavior
- An error message appears stating that the email address cannot be added because it is already part of the account's security information.
Log in to your Microsoft account security dashboard and ensure you have an alternative way to verify your identity, such as a phone number, before removing any email addresses from your security info.
Remove the Email from Security Information and Add as Alias
To use the email address as an alias, you must first remove it from your Microsoft account's security verification methods.
An alias is an additional email address associated with the same Microsoft account, sharing the same inbox and contact list. Microsoft prevents an address from being used as both a primary alias and a security contact simultaneously to prevent account recovery loops.
Navigate to the Microsoft account security page in your web browser and sign in with your primary credentials.
Click on 'Advanced security options' to view all your current verification methods.
Locate the email address you want to use as an alias under 'Ways to prove who you are', expand it, and click 'Remove'.
Go to the 'Your info' tab, click 'Edit account info', and select 'Add email' to register the address as your new alias.
Create a New Email Address for the Alias
If you want to keep the current email as a security backup, you can generate a brand new Outlook address to serve as your alias instead.
Enhance Your Productivity with WPS Office
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- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button for your operating system.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an Outlook alias and a new account?
An alias uses the same inbox, contact list, and account settings as your primary email address. A new account would have its own separate inbox, settings, and login credentials.
Can I use a non-Microsoft email address as an alias?
Yes, you can add existing third-party email addresses (like Yahoo or Gmail) as an alias, provided they aren't already linked to another Microsoft account as a primary address.
Will I lose my emails if I change my primary alias?
No. Changing your primary alias does not delete any emails or alter your inbox. It only changes the main email address used to sign in and the default address that appears on your outgoing messages.
