You are not alone if your Hotmail account has been restricted because of “suspicious activities,” and you are unable to access your email or recovery phone. Many people become stuck when they are locked out of Microsoft’s security system.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to recover a Microsoft or Hotmail account when:
- Your recovery phone number no longer works.
- Your alternate email is outdated.
- The Microsoft account recovery form keeps failing.
- You can’t get past the security verification step.
Why Microsoft Blocks Hotmail Accounts
Microsoft automatically locks accounts if it detects:
- Unusual sign-in activity.
- Sending a large number of emails in a short time.
- Sign-ins from suspicious IP addresses or public Wi-Fi.
- Possible hacking attempts.
While it’s designed to protect your account, it can also lock out the rightful owner if recovery info is outdated.
Step 1: Use the Microsoft Account Recovery Form Correctly
Your first step is the Microsoft Account Recovery Form: account.live.com/acsr
Tips for Success:
- Answer every question — even if you’re unsure, a close guess is better than leaving it blank.
- Provide real details — recent email subject lines, names of frequent contacts, billing info from purchases.
- Ask contacts for help — friends and colleagues can share subject lines of past emails you sent them.
- Use a valid email — Microsoft will send updates to this address, so it can even be a brand-new account.
Pro Tip: Each submission is reviewed by Microsoft’s automated system – the more accurate your answers, the higher your chances.
Step 2: Try the Account Unlock Option
This is different from a password reset.
Go to: account.live.com/password/reset
When asked for a security code:
- You can use any phone number that can receive texts – it does not need to be linked to your account.
- This can be your new number, a friend’s number, or even a prepaid SIM.
Step 3: Contact Microsoft Support the Right Way
If you’ve ever purchased Microsoft products (Microsoft 365, Xbox Game Pass, Windows Store purchases), you may have another route for verification.
How to reach the right support team:
- Visit: support.microsoft.com/contactus
- Choose Billing and Account Profile as your category.
- Have order numbers, subscription IDs, or billing details ready for identity verification.
Extra Hotmail Account Recovery Tips
- Try multiple times — Many users succeed after 2–3 attempts with more accurate information.
- Avoid suspicious networks — Don’t try logging in from public Wi-Fi while troubleshooting.
- Update your recovery details immediately — Once you regain access, change your phone number and backup email.
Final Word
Recovering a blocked Hotmail account without recovery phone or email is challenging — but not impossible. By following these Microsoft account recovery tips and using all available options, you maximize your chances of getting your account back.
Persistence, accuracy, and the right approach are key. Once you’re back in, keep your security info updated so you never face this problem again.