What Happens After a 30-Day Microsoft Security Information Hold?
Question details
The user wants to know if their current Outlook password will still work after a 30-day Microsoft security information hold for updating an alternate email address.
- Product
- Microsoft Account
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Updating Microsoft account security information, specifically changing the alternate recovery email address.
- Observed behavior
- The account enters a 30-day security hold, and the user needs to know how this affects their current password and future password recovery options.
Ensure you have access to your current login credentials and actively monitor the email address where Microsoft sent the 30-day security hold notification.
Check Your Account Access Status After the 30-Day Hold
Determine whether your password will be affected based on the specific type of security information update you requested.
A 30-day security-information update period affects your account recovery details, but it does not necessarily change your current Outlook password. The final outcome depends entirely on what was included in the security request you submitted.
If you only requested to change your alternate email address (e.g., switching from an old address to a new Gmail address), your current Outlook password will remain completely unchanged. You can continue signing in with your existing password.
If your security request also included a password reset or change alongside the email update, your old password will stop working once the new changes take effect.
If you forget your password after the 30-day period completes, go to the Microsoft sign-in page, select 'Forgot password', and choose to send the verification code to your newly updated alternate email address.
Cancel the Security Information Request
If you made the request by mistake or regained access to your old security info, you can cancel the 30-day hold.
Try WPS Office for a Hassle-Free Productivity Experience
While managing Microsoft account security holds can be frustrating, working on your documents shouldn't be. WPS Office is a lightweight, fully compatible, and free alternative to Microsoft Office that lets you view, edit, and create documents without relying on a complex cloud account setup.
- 1. Download the installer: Visit the official WPS Office website to download the free version for your device.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still use my Outlook email during the 30-day security hold?
Yes, you can still access your email, Skype, OneDrive, and connected devices during the 30-day pending period. The hold primarily restricts you from changing further security settings, passwords, or billing information.
Why does Microsoft enforce a 30-day wait for security changes?
The 30-day hold is a strict security measure designed to protect your account. If an unauthorized person gains access and tries to lock you out by changing your security info, the delay gives you enough time to receive notifications and cancel the fraudulent request.
What should I do if I forget my password after the 30 days are over?
Once the 30-day period completes and your new alternate email is fully active, go to the sign-in page, select 'Forgot password,' and choose to send the password reset verification code to your newly added email address.
