Windows 10: How do I get a security code when they use my phone number thinking it is text when it is...

How do I get a code when the phone number I used is not a text number and I cannot use text as I do not have a cell phone.

:)

 

Microsoft account and phone number linked

Microsoft account password recovery requires two verification codes being sent using two different verification methods. Each Microsoft account has at least two verification methods, the phone number and additional email address which are asked and required when you set up a new Microsoft account with a new hotmail.com or outlook.com email or using a third party email.

When the thief who got your phone tries to recover your password, all your verification methods / security info phone numbers and email addresses will be listed for him to select one. OK, the thief naturally selects your phone number, gets the code sent as a text message, and enters it.

But, clicking Next after entering the code he needs to select another security info contact (phone / email) from the list to receive second verification code.

Password recovery is not possible with just your phone, the system is clever enough to make it impossible by requiring two codes being sent to two different phones and / or emails.

You can add as many phone numbers and email address as you wish as security info contacts at https://account.live.com/proofs/mana...&refp=security. I wholeheartedly recommend that you add at least another security email address; if you only have one phone number and one email added, those which were required when you set up the Microsoft account, and that thief got your phone, the recovery would be as impossible to you as it is to him, you both having access to just one of required two verification methods.

 

Outlook asking cellphone number

It is part of their security system. So if your account is compromised they can send a text to your cellphone with a code to verify your identity. It is part of their 2 step verification, supposedly you can enter an alternate email address instead of a cellphone number. You have to click like you are going to enter a cell phone, and on the page to enter your number there is an option to enter an alternate email instead.

If that doesn't work try this:

Click your name or picture in the top Outlook.com navigation bar.
Select Account settings from the menu that has appeared.
If you are prompted for a password:
Type your Outlook.com password over Password.
Click Sign in.
Open the Security info category under Overview.
Click Help us protect your account.
Choose whether you want to add a phone number or alternate email address under Help us protect your account.
Enter the email address or phone number (making sure the country code is set correctly and does not appear in the phone number itself).
Click Next.
Look for and open an email from "Microsoft account team " with the subject "Microsoft account security code" at the email address you selected or a call or text message from Microsoft.
If you received the code by email:
Highlight and copy the verification code in the message.
Paste the code over Code back at Help us protect your account.

 

Cannot restore W10 phone backup asking for security code

Hi,

Thanks for your response. I managed to access my backup after receiving a call with a code ! Wasn't expecting it so missed the first one. I also received texts but couldn't get to them whilst back up process in progress. No option to use email offered.

I do have a correct primary email address listed under Account aliases, and two other aliases however under the sign in preferences the primary one is greyed out. I have unmarked the other aliases.

I am having a few problems now setting up 2 step verification. Just received a push code to access my mail box but 2 step verification is disabled ? according to security page although the authenticator has my microsoft account listed. Confused.

Update: 2 Step is now registering as on on security page., also presume the email address is greyed out because my preference is SMS with phone number perhaps best to use email as preference ? Actually think it is greyed out as cannot opt out (uncheck) primary
email address ??