I lost access to my email today, and I suspect I might have clicked a bad link on my laptop which led to this situation. I received several notifications that my phone number was removed from an email address that's not mine. Now, when I try to log in, it says my original email address 'doesn't exist,' and I can't reset my password because it tries to send the new password to an email that's not mine. I still have access to Microsoft Authenticator, but I'm not sure how to retrieve my account. I've also found Microsoft support to be unhelpful with only automated responses, and I'm considering whether I should wipe my laptop since I suspect it started this whole mess.
4 Answers
It's highly unlikely that just clicking a bad link compromised your email. Usually, to get malware running, you need to download and open a file. To be safe, run a scan with the built-in antivirus on Windows.
You should be able to sign in using the Authenticator. Usually, there's an option for 'Other ways to sign in.' Once you're in, you can change your password and email, plus check for any suspicious activity in your email. Don't forget to report the issue! Regarding wiping your laptop, what did you click on - was it from your browser or email? Running a full antivirus scan is a good move too.
Make sure to change the passwords for any accounts you can still access! It's crucial to secure your other accounts as soon as possible.
Check out this Microsoft support link for the account recovery form. It might help you recover your account: https://support.microsoft.com/en-au/account-billing/help-with-the-microsoft-account-recovery-form-b19c02d1-a782-dee6-93c3-dc8113b20c42.
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