Password & Account Recovery

How to Fix Hotmail Password Reset Loop After Verification Code

Phi Hung Vo Sep 29, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user is trapped in a loop where the password reset screen keeps reappearing even after correctly entering the Microsoft verification code.

How to Fix Hotmail Password Reset Loop After Verification Code

Product: Hotmail
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to recover a locked or compromised Hotmail account by resetting the password.
Observed behavior: The system accepts the verification code but immediately returns to the same password reset screen without allowing the user to create a new password.

Before you start

Ensure you have a stable internet connection and access to your backup email or phone number before starting the recovery process again.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Incognito Mode or a Different Network

Clearing your browser's cache or using a private window can bypass browser-level glitches that cause the reset loop.

Sometimes, corrupted cookies or cached data can interfere with Microsoft's authentication process. An incognito window ensures a clean session.

Open a private browsing window

Launch your web browser and open an Incognito or InPrivate window (e.g., press Ctrl+Shift+N in Chrome or Ctrl+Shift+P in Edge).

Navigate to Microsoft recovery

Go to the Microsoft account recovery page and enter your Hotmail address to request a new verification code.

Switch your network connection

Before entering the verification code, connect to a different Wi-Fi network or use your mobile device's cellular data to bypass potential IP blocks.

Enter the verification code

Input the code received in your backup email or phone. The system should now proceed to the new password creation screen.

Use Incognito Mode or a Different Network

Network Switch Strategy: Switching to cellular data often resolves loop issues caused by temporary IP address flagging from Microsoft's security servers.

Solution 2

Wait for the 48-Hour Security Cooldown

Microsoft temporarily locks accounts after unusual activity or repeated recovery attempts to prevent unauthorized access.

Solution 3

Submit the Account Recovery Form

If standard verification fails or is blocked, you must prove your identity using Microsoft's manual recovery form.

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While you wait to recover your Hotmail and Microsoft account, you can continue working on your important files without needing a Microsoft login. WPS Office is a free, lightweight, and fully compatible alternative to Microsoft Office that allows you to create, edit, and save documents locally.

1. Download the installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the Free Download button.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Hotmail keep asking for a verification code?

This usually happens if Microsoft detects unusual sign-in activity, a new location, or repeated failed login attempts. The system triggers a temporary security loop to ensure the person attempting access is the legitimate account owner.

Can I contact Microsoft support directly to unlock my Hotmail account?

Microsoft relies primarily on automated recovery systems like verification codes and the Account Recovery form to protect user privacy. Direct phone or chat support typically cannot manually bypass these security measures or reset passwords for you.

Will I lose my emails if my Hotmail account remains locked?

No, your emails, contacts, and account data are safely stored on Microsoft's servers. Once the temporary security hold is lifted and you successfully verify your identity, you will regain full access to your inbox without data loss.

Login & Account Issues