Windows 10: Locked out of new laptop because of Microsoft Account Security Update

I recently got a new laptop. It made me link a Microsoft account as part of the setup, I didn’t want to but it was required. When I tried to sign in at a later time it told me that there was a problem with my PIN and I needed to sign in with my Microsoft account. However, since I rarely use my Microsoft account my old number was still the second layer of security. I know I had an email listed in my Microsoft account as well but that just straight up disappeared. I tried factory resetting my device but BitLocker encrypted my drive and I need my recovery key for that so I’m right back where I st

:)

 

Accidentally locked my laptop from my Microsoft Account. How to unlock the device

Hi

Welcome to Microsoft community.

If you've accidentally locked your laptop via your Microsoft account and you're not seeing an "Unlock" option, here are the steps to unlock your device:

1. Physical Access: Go to your locked laptop. You'll need physical access to your laptop to unlock it.
   
2. Login Screen: At the login screen, you'll need to enter the password for the Microsoft account that the laptop is linked to. If you have changed your Microsoft account password recently, ensure you're using the latest one.
   
3. Reset Password: If you have forgotten your password, you can reset it. From the sign-in screen on your laptop, select 'I forgot my password' and follow the prompts. You'll need to verify your identity and then you can enter a new password.
   
4. Two-step Verification: If you have two-step verification activated, you'll need to provide an additional security code which can be sent to your email, phone number or authenticator app.
   

After successfully entering your password (and second verification step if applicable), your laptop should be unlocked.

The lock option from Microsoft account is for temporary scenarios where you've left your device unattended and you want to make sure no one else can access it. Once you unlock it from the device itself, it should be back to normal use.

Please feel free to let me know if you have any further updates, thanks.

Best regards

Derrick Qian | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

 

PNY Announces New Line of ThinkSafe Portable Laptop Locking Systems

PNY Technologies, Inc. ("PNY") today announced the launch of a new line of ThinkSafe Portable Laptop Locking Systems -- specifically engineered with patented technology to work with Laptops, Ultrabooks, and MacBooks. Designed for personal and business use to keep your device secured while in public locations, from dorm rooms and offices to tradeshows and display rooms, PNY offers a convenient and discrete locking solution for your laptop devices.

The PNY ThinkSafe family of products includes the Laptop Locking System, the MacBook Locking System, and the Security Clamp. The Laptop Locking System -- designed to be universal -- was engineered to work with Laptops, Ultrabooks, and MacBooks. The MacBook Locking System -- designed to work with Apple products -- was engineered to work with the MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and iMac. The ThinkSafe Portable Security Clamp provides a secure anchor point for your Laptop, Ultrabook, or MacBook, complements both of the PNY Locking Systems and also works with most cable locking systems in the market today.











Patented Hinge-Link technology, utilizing a hinge-locking design, is the fundamental security feature that makes PNY ThinkSafe Locking Systems one-of-a-kind. With four distinct custom-shaped Hinge-Links, constructed of hardened stainless steel and based on a device's varying hinge configuration, PNY offers a simple solution that is extremely secure and versatile. Each one uniquely fits through the hinge of your laptop in seconds to easily secure your device -- in any environment to conveniently safeguard virtually any laptop. As the hinge of a laptop is an incredibly strong point and is easily accessible, consumers can have peace-of-mind that their device is secured properly. The included step-by-step quick-start guide will help users simply identify which Hinge-Link works best with their system. Additionally, the patented PNY ThinkSafe Locking System is the only hinge-locking solution available today to safely and securely lock the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro with Retina display.

The patent-pending Slot-Link by PNY is a cast steel constructed mechanism that connects to a laptop's security slot in seconds. Slot-Link offers consumers a convenient way to lock any laptop device utilizing the existing slot integrated into the body of many devices today.

Each of the PNY Locking Systems comes with a 6 foot carbon steel cable with built-in combination lock and factory installed 4-digit pin for the ultimate security. The combination lock fits snugly into all of the PNY Hinge-Links and the Slot-Link. A convenient travel pouch is also included, for the utmost in portability.

"PNY is excited to bring a revolutionary new approach to physical laptop security, providing class leading theft deterrence and moving away from the limitations of the 3mm x 7mm security slot. Laptops continue to become thinner and more elegant, with Apple leading the charge, resulting in a number of manufacturers eliminating the security slot and as a result there exists a need for a new improved method to attach a cable lock to a laptop," said Nicholas Mauro, senior marketing manager, for PNY. "PNY has focused on providing a solution that is compatible with more makes and models of laptop computers than other manufacturers and developed an easy-to-use solution to help combat laptop theft. We are very excited to offer a simple, secure & unique solution for the MacBook Air, which does not have a security slot."

• PNY ThinkSafe Portable Laptop Locking System
  Engineered to secure your Laptop, Ultrabook, or MacBook
  MSRP: $39.99
• PNY ThinkSafe Portable MacBook Locking System
  Engineered to secure your MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, or iMac
  MSRP: $39.99
• PNY ThinkSafe Portable Security Clamp
  Engineered to provide a secure anchor point for your Laptop, Ultrabook, or MacBook
  MSRP: $29.99

 

Should my Microsoft Account have administrator privileges?

I just finished reinstalling Windows 10 (Creator version) and decided to have the installation process create a Microsoft Account instead of bypassing that step like I have on other laptops in the past and creating a local account later. After the install I went to Accounts in the settings and saw that the Microsoft Account was listed as an Administrator. I always thought the main user should only have standard privs for security purposes. Thoughts? Should I create a new admin account and try and change the MSA to a standard account?