Windows 10: Microsoft account verification code not coming through

I'm trying to help a client get into their Microsoft account to a add secondary verification and b restore OneDrive. However, when we try and receive the code on this screen, it never arrives. Their email is working fine - we can send test emails to it from my own mailbox. The irony that we're trying to add telephone but can't because this verify code never arrives is off the scale :-

:)

 

Did not receive the Microsoft Account Verification Code

Hi, SHARON.

I'm Jen, I'm also an Outlook account user just like you. I'm not working for Microsoft but I'd be happy to help you figure this out.

I understand you're not receiving a verification code for your Microsoft account. If your security info's are up to date, you may be experiencing delays receiving the code which I have also experienced before. But if you have already waited too long and have made a couple of attempts, I suggest following the suggested steps in the "Troubleshooting verification code issues" section on the support page below.

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/account-bil...

Feel free to share how it went.

Kind regards.

 

Unprompted Microsoft verification text

Hi,

Thank you for posting your query in Microsoft Community.

I understand your concern and will assist you to resolve this issue.

• 
  Have you enabled two step verification?
  
• 
  Did you make any changes prior to this issue?
  

If you have enabled two step verification in the Microsoft account. You’ll get a security code to your email, phone, or authenticator app every time you sign in on a device that isn't trusted.

Refer the link below for more information.

About two-step verification.

How to use two-step verification with your Microsoft account - Microsoft Support

Security info & security codes.

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-in/windows/account-security-password-information



Hope this information was helpful and do let us know if you need further assistance. We will be glad to assist.

 

Microsoft account security code - WHY?

Thanks for the reply Greg.

"If you turn on two-step verification, you’ll get a security code to your email, phone, or authenticator app every time you sign in on
a device that isn't trusted. When two-step verification is turned off, you will only have to verify your identity with security codes periodically, when
there might be a risk to your account security."

Overkill.

As Two-Step verification has never been turned on, I presume MS thinks every time I log into access pages on https://account.microsoft.com/ pages I'm a risk to my account. Even from computers listed in the 'Devices" tab of those pages. Even though I have
to supply my MS password to get to those pages.

Are you suggesting I turn two-step verification on, which is what I don't need?