MFA & Verification Issues

How to Recover a Facebook Account Removed from Microsoft Authenticator

Maira Mehtab Sep 24, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to regain access to their Facebook account after the authentication configuration was accidentally deleted from the Microsoft Authenticator app without a backup.

Product: Microsoft Authenticator / Facebook
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to log into Facebook but unable to pass the two-factor authentication (2FA) prompt because the authenticator app no longer generates the required security codes.
Observed behavior: The Facebook account configuration is completely missing from Microsoft Authenticator, and the app cannot independently recover or recreate the deleted connection.

Before you start

Before beginning the recovery process, check if you are still logged into Facebook on another browser, computer, or mobile device, which may allow you to bypass the 2FA prompt and update your settings directly.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Saved Facebook Backup Codes

The fastest way to regain access is by using the emergency backup codes provided by Facebook when you initially configured two-factor authentication.

When you set up 2FA, Facebook prompts you to save a list of 8-digit recovery codes. These codes are specifically designed to help you log in if you lose access to your authenticator app.

Log in to Facebook

Navigate to the Facebook login page and enter your standard username and password.

Access alternative login methods

When prompted for the 6-digit authentication code, click on the 'Need another way to authenticate?' or 'Having trouble?' link on the screen.

Select backup code option

Choose the option that allows you to use a backup code or recovery code.

Enter the code

Type in one of your saved 8-digit backup codes to access your account. Once logged in, immediately go to your Security Settings to reconfigure a new authenticator connection.

One-time use: Remember that each Facebook backup code can only be used once. Once you regain access, generate a new set of codes if you are running low.

Solution 2

Submit Identity Verification to Facebook

If you do not have backup codes, you must use Facebook's official account recovery process to verify your identity. Microsoft cannot restore the authenticator connection.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Your Document Needs

While resolving account lockouts can be frustrating, managing your daily documents shouldn't be. WPS Office provides a free, highly compatible, and lightweight alternative to Microsoft Office, making it easy to handle all your Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files without the hassle of complex subscriptions.

1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the Free Download button.
2. Install the Software: Run the downloaded installer file and follow the quick on-screen instructions.
3. Start Creating: Open WPS Office and instantly begin editing your documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formats.Completely free to use with a clean, intuitive interface.Lightweight application that runs smoothly on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android.Includes a powerful built-in PDF toolkit for editing and converting documents.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Microsoft Support restore my deleted Facebook Authenticator configuration?

No. Microsoft Authenticator simply generates codes locally based on a shared secret key. Once the account is deleted from the app without a cloud backup, Microsoft cannot recover the account or recreate the authentication configuration. You must use Facebook's recovery tools.

Does Microsoft Authenticator have a cloud backup feature?

Yes, Microsoft Authenticator supports cloud backup for iOS (via iCloud) and Android (via a personal Microsoft account). However, this feature must have been turned on before the Facebook account was deleted in order to restore it on a new device or after an accidental deletion.

How do I set up 2FA for Facebook again after recovering my account?

Once you successfully log back into Facebook, navigate to Settings & Privacy > Settings > Security and Login. Under the Two-Factor Authentication section, click Edit, remove the old authenticator app connection, and set up a new one by scanning the new QR code with your Microsoft Authenticator app.

What if my ID is rejected by Facebook during the recovery process?

If your ID is rejected, ensure that the photo is well-lit, clearly legible, and that the name and date of birth match your Facebook profile exactly. You may need to retake the photo and resubmit your recovery request through the Facebook Help Center.

Login & Account Issues