How to Change a Forgotten OneDrive Personal Vault PIN
Question details
The user needs to reset their OneDrive Personal Vault PIN but cannot remember the current one to initiate the standard change process.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- iPadOS
- Scenario
- Attempting to change a forgotten Personal Vault PIN while still having access via fingerprint authentication.
- Observed behavior
- The PIN reset requires the current PIN, blocking the user from changing it without a forced identity verification reset.
Ensure you have access to your Microsoft account credentials and your designated two-factor authentication (2FA) method, such as an authenticator app or recovery email.
Trigger Identity Verification by Entering an Incorrect PIN
Force the OneDrive application to fall back to Microsoft account verification to set up a new PIN.
If you have forgotten your Personal Vault PIN but can still open it with your fingerprint, you cannot simply change the PIN from the settings without knowing the old one. Instead, you must intentionally lock the PIN entry screen to trigger a secure reset via your Microsoft account.
Launch the Microsoft OneDrive app on your iPad and tap on the Personal Vault folder. If prompted for Touch ID, cancel it or opt to use the PIN instead.
Type an incorrect PIN into the prompt five times in a row. This will temporarily disable the PIN entry method and prompt a security check.
The vault will redirect you to the identity verification screen. Follow the on-screen prompts to log in with your Microsoft account password and complete the two-factor authentication.
Once your identity is successfully verified, you will be prompted to create and confirm a new 6-digit PIN for your Personal Vault.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Will resetting my Personal Vault PIN delete my files?
No. Resetting your PIN through Microsoft's secure identity verification process only updates your authentication method. All files stored within your Personal Vault will remain safe and intact.
Can I manage my Personal Vault settings on a web browser?
Yes. You can manage how you sign in and verify your identity by logging into OneDrive.com, clicking the Settings gear icon, selecting Options, and then clicking on Personal Vault.
Why does Personal Vault require a PIN if I use fingerprint unlock on my iPad?
Fingerprint authentication (Touch ID) provides quick access, but Microsoft requires a PIN as a secure fallback method. The PIN is also required whenever you attempt to make administrative changes to the vault's security settings.
What happens if I cannot pass the two-factor authentication during the PIN reset?
If you lose access to your two-factor authentication methods, you will not be able to reset the PIN immediately. You must go through the Microsoft account recovery process, which typically takes 30 days to update your security information.
