How to Stop Microsoft Verification Codes Sent to the Wrong Phone
Question details
The user is receiving unsolicited Microsoft account verification codes via text message on a phone number that is not linked to their account.
- Product
- Microsoft Account
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Getting multiple unexpected SMS messages containing Microsoft verification codes, frequently arriving during the night.
- Observed behavior
- SMS verification codes are repeatedly delivered to the wrong phone, likely because another user accidentally entered the incorrect phone number when registering or signing in.
Do not click any links in these unexpected text messages and never share the verification codes with anyone, even if someone contacts you claiming it was a mistake.
Ignore Codes and Contact Microsoft Support to Unlink Your Number
The safest approach is to ignore the texts and securely report the incidents to Microsoft so they can investigate and unlink your phone number from the unauthorized account.
These messages are typically the result of a simple typo. Another user likely has a phone number very similar to yours and entered it incorrectly while setting up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) or attempting a password reset.
Simply ignore the text message. Do not attempt to use the provided code to sign in to any account, and never forward or read the code to anyone else.
Write down the exact dates and times you received the unsolicited verification messages. Microsoft Support will need this information to trace the account.
Navigate to the official Microsoft Account Support page in your web browser. Open a private support request or start a live chat session.
Provide the support agent with the dates and times of the messages. Ask them to investigate the incorrect association of your phone number with another user's account and request that your number be unlinked.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Could my Microsoft account be hacked if I keep getting these texts?
If the phone number isn't linked to your actual Microsoft account, your account is perfectly safe. The texts simply indicate that someone else is entering your phone number by mistake while trying to access their own account.
Should I reply to the text message with 'STOP'?
No, you should never reply to automated verification text messages. Replying usually will not stop them and might confirm to automated systems or potential scammers that your phone number is active.
Can I just block the phone number sending the verification codes?
You can block the sender's shortcode on your mobile device to stop seeing the notifications. However, be aware that if you ever need a legitimate Microsoft verification code for your own account in the future, it might also be blocked.
