Password & Account Recovery

How to Fix Microsoft Account Password Reset Error: Password Used Too Many Times

Chanuka Geekiyanage Oct 19, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is unable to reset their Microsoft account password due to an error stating the new password has been used too many times, even when it is completely unique.

How to Fix Microsoft Account Password Reset Error: Password Used Too Many Times

Product: Microsoft Account
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to reset an account password using a complex, entirely new password string.
Observed behavior: The password screening system incorrectly rejects the new password, displaying the message, 'We have seen that password too many times before.'

Before you start

Before proceeding, verify that your new password is truly unique and has never been associated with this Microsoft account in the past. Ensure you have access to your backup email or phone number to receive security verification codes.

Solution 1Recommended

Use an InPrivate or Incognito Browsing Window

Clearing existing browser session data by using an Incognito or InPrivate window often resolves loop errors in Microsoft's password reset system.

Browser cache or conflicting session cookies can sometimes cause the Microsoft account recovery page to malfunction and misread your new password input. Using a private browsing session ensures you are interacting with a fresh, clean page instance.

Open a Private Window

Launch your web browser. If you are using Microsoft Edge, click the three-dot menu and select 'New InPrivate window'. For Google Chrome, select 'New Incognito window'.

Navigate to the Password Reset Page

Go to the official Microsoft account password reset portal in your newly opened private window.

Enter Recovery Details

Input your email address and verify your identity using your backup email or phone number.

Set a New Password

Type your new, unique password that includes uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Submit the form to finalize the reset.

Solution 2

Contact Support via Microsoft Community Private Messaging

If automated reset systems fail, you can request a secure backend investigation from a Microsoft Community moderator.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Microsoft reject my completely new password?

Microsoft’s password screening system may reject a new password due to a caching error in your browser, or if the new password shares too many similarities (like specific word patterns or sequential numbers) with previous passwords or commonly used compromised passwords.

Can I reuse an old password for my Microsoft account?

No. For security reasons, Microsoft prevents users from reusing old passwords that were previously associated with their account. You must create a completely new combination of characters.

What should I do if my Microsoft account is temporarily blocked from resetting?

If you make too many unsuccessful password reset attempts, Microsoft may temporarily block the action for security purposes. Wait at least 24 hours before trying again, ideally using an Incognito browser window.

Login & Account Issues