How to Cancel an Unauthorized Microsoft Account Security Info Change
Question details
The user needs to cancel a pending 30-day security information replacement request on their Microsoft account because the change was unauthorized.
- Product
- Microsoft Account
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- The user received a notification that someone is attempting to change their Microsoft account recovery details using an unfamiliar verification number.
- Observed behavior
- A pending security-information-change notice appears on the account, indicating a potential security compromise and initiating a 30-day waiting period.
Ensure you have access to your current account password or at least one of your existing security verification methods to verify your identity.
Cancel the Unauthorized Security Request via Account Settings
Use this method to stop a pending 30-day security information change if you did not initiate the request yourself.
If you receive a notification about security details being replaced and the provided verification number is unfamiliar, you must treat your account as potentially compromised. Microsoft provides a direct option to block this change during the 30-day holding period.
Navigate to the official Microsoft account Security page using a web browser and sign in with your current account credentials.
Look for the pending security-information-change notification displayed on your security dashboard.
Click on the 'Let us know' link within the pending notice to inform Microsoft that you did not request this security information change.
If you accidentally initiated the change yourself, simply select 'Cancel this request' to revert the action.
Once you regain full access, immediately change your account password, review your recent sign-in activity, and enable multifactor authentication (MFA).
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Microsoft impose a 30-day waiting period for security changes?
The 30-day waiting period is a protective measure. It prevents unauthorized users or hackers from immediately locking you out of your account by changing your recovery email or phone number, giving you time to receive notifications and cancel the fraudulent request.
Can I still access my emails and files during the 30-day pending period?
Yes, you can still sign in and use standard Microsoft services such as Outlook email, Skype, and OneDrive. However, you will be restricted from accessing sensitive account settings, viewing billing information, or making further security changes until the period ends.
What should I do if the hacker already changed my password?
If you are entirely locked out and cannot sign in to cancel the security information change, you must use the Microsoft account recovery form. Be prepared to provide previous passwords, associated emails, and other identifying details to prove your ownership to Microsoft Support.
