Account Security Problems

How to Change Microsoft Account Phone Number After Suspected Fraud

Elise Williams Sep 30, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to update their Microsoft account phone number and password due to suspected fraudulent activity and a loss of access to their previous phone number.

How to Change Your Microsoft Account Phone Number After Suspected Fraud

Product: Microsoft Account
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Securing a potentially compromised account and updating recovery contact information.
Observed behavior: The user suspects their email password has been compromised and can no longer receive verification codes sent to the old phone number ending in 8701.

Before you start

Before making changes to your security settings, ensure you are using a secure, trusted device and network. Run an antivirus scan to ensure your computer is free of malware or keyloggers.

Solution 1Recommended

Update Security Info and Change Password via Account Settings

This is the primary method to secure your account. By accessing your security settings, you can remove the compromised phone number, add a new one, and reset your password.

If you still have access to your account via your current password or an alternate email address, you can directly update your security information in the Microsoft account dashboard.

Sign In

Go to the Microsoft account login page (login.microsoftonline.com or account.microsoft.com) and sign in with your email and current password.

Access Security Settings

Navigate to the 'Security' tab at the top of the dashboard, then click on 'Advanced security options'.

Replace the Phone Number

Locate the phone number ending in 8701 under the 'Ways to prove who you are' section. Click 'Remove'. Then, click 'Add a new way to sign in or verify' to add your new, secure phone number.

Change Your Password

Return to the main Security page and select 'Password security'. Enter your current password and create a new, strong password that you have never used before.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Under 'Advanced security options', scroll down to 'Two-step verification' and click 'Turn on'. Follow the prompts to set it up using your new phone number or an authenticator app.

Update Security Info and Change Password via Account Settings

Review Recent Activity: While in the Security tab, click on 'Sign-in activity' to review recent logins. If you see unfamiliar locations or devices, use the 'Secure your account' option.

Solution 2

Contact Microsoft Support for Account Recovery

If the suspected fraudster has locked you out or you cannot pass the identity verification to change the old phone number, you must use the official account recovery process.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I remove my old phone number without access to it?

If you cannot verify your identity using the old number or an alternative email, Microsoft may require a 30-day waiting period to replace your security information. This is to protect your account from unauthorized changes by malicious actors.

How can I check if a fraudster actually accessed my Microsoft account?

Log in to your Microsoft account, go to the 'Security' tab, and click 'Sign-in activity'. This page shows a log of when and where your account was accessed, including successful logins and incorrect password attempts.

Can I use an authenticator app instead of a phone number?

Yes. Once you have regained secure access to your account, you can set up an authenticator app (such as Microsoft Authenticator) under 'Advanced security options'. This is often more secure than SMS verification.

Microsoft Office Security Issues