Windows 10: Why is my phone number already linked to another account?

Hi,My phone number is currently linked to another account, and I’m unable to update my details. When I enter my phone number, instead of displaying my name, it shows "Arahia" as the administrator. I believe she may be the previous owner of the number I now have.Could someone please assist me with resolving this issue?See the attached file.Thank you,Victoria

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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.

 

How can I un-link my current Microsoft account that is tagged to my Windows activation license and link it to a new Microsoft account?

You don't make a new account & try to move your entitlements to it, you change the email address associated with the original account.

From Microsoft Support - Change the email address or phone number for your Microsoft account

 

Change account phone number

Hello SeanPR11,

I am Jaspreet Singh.

Please use the steps listed here and first remove all your security information. (this will take 30 days after which you will be able to add new phone number without being required a code first)

Follow the steps under the title "Remove Security information" on this link : https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/account-bil...

* There is no way to fast track this 30 day process.