I'm in a tough spot. We just got a new computer for my mom and her partner, but she can't remember her Windows password from 15 years ago. The only email linked to that account hasn't been used in almost 20 years. I've attempted to use the account recovery form multiple times, but I keep getting denied. I have her old computer, but I can't find a way to retrieve the password. I added my email as a recovery option, but I'm not sure if that'll help. It takes a whole MONTH to recover that way! Trying to change anything just leads me to requests for verification from the non-existent email. And unfortunately, I can't reach anyone at Microsoft for help. Can anyone offer advice?
2 Answers
Did your mom use BitLocker? If she didn't, you might be able to remove the hard drive and access files that way. But just a heads up, passwords aren't saved on the hard drive, only their hashes, so that won't help directly with the account.
Unfortunately, there's no easy way to retrieve a Microsoft password, and it’s against forum rules to discuss any hacking methods. The best course of action is really to work through Microsoft's recovery process, even though it can be frustrating.
I understand that, but I just need access to her Microsoft account, not just the files.