Unable to Reconfigure Authenticator App After Reinstalling Without Backup. Also Unable to Change Outlook Settings for Two-Step Verification

Question

I use an authenticator app for authentication with my company email, but I did not set up two-step verification. A few days ago, I reset my phone, and there is no backup of the authenticator app. Now, when I try to log in to Azure, it asks for an authenticator code. When I try to set up the authenticator app on my mobile, it still asks for a code, and even when I try to change the settings from Outlook login, it also asks for a code. How can I resolve this issue?

Answer 1

Hi @Akshay Petkar

I understand that you are unable to login to your email due to you have reset the phone and loss the access the Authenticator App.

Since you are using work email, your account should mange by your organization, please reach your organization IT admin and request them to reset the MFA, so that you can re-register the MFA again with your phone.
For more info Manage user authentication methods for Microsoft Entra multifactor authentication
Hope this helps. Do let us know if you any further queries by responding in the comments section.

Thanks,

Akhilesh V.

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Answer 2

Hi @Akshay Petkar

Welcome to our forum!

There are a few steps you can take to regain access to your account:

1. Contact Your IT Admin: If your company has an IT department, they can reset your authentication methods. This is often the quickest way to resolve the issue. More information: Manage authentication methods - Microsoft Entra ID | Microsoft Learn 
2. Use Account Recovery Options: If you have other recovery options set up (like a phone number or email), you can use these to verify your identity and reset your authentication methods. You can access the recovery options through the Microsoft Account Recovery form.
3. Access Security Info: If you can log in to your account on a different device or through a different method, go to My Account > Security Info and add a new sign-in method. This can help you set up the authenticator app again. More information:  Authenticator app lost without backup and no other admin - Microsoft Q&A 
4. Microsoft Support: If you need to recover faster, you may need to contact Microsoft Support directly. They can guide you through the process of regaining access to your account.

If none of the above options work, you may want to post your issue on this dedicated forum for Microsoft Certification for more professional help. 

Hope it helps.

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