Microsoft Live
So you want to delete or reset your Microsoft account? Let's help you with that!
Our system has detected one of two potential issues:
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Compromised Password: The password you use for your Microsoft account has been found in a known data breach, making it insecure and putting your account at risk.
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Use of Work Email: Your work email is being used for a personal service, which is against company policy to ensure the security and integrity of our systems.
Please follow the relevant instructions below to resolve this issue immediately.
Part 1: Scenario: Your Password Has Been Compromised
If you were notified about a compromised password, you must change it immediately. The fastest way to do this is using the password reset feature, even if you still remember the old one.
Step-by-Step Guide:
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Navigate to the Reset Page: Go directly to the Microsoft account password reset page.
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Enter Your Email: Enter your Microsoft email address (e.g., @outlook.com, @hotmail.com, @live.com) and click "Next".
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Verify Your Identity: Microsoft will need to verify you own the account. Choose a verification option, such as receiving a code at your backup email address or phone number, and follow the on-screen instructions.
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Create a New, Strong Password: Once verified, you will be prompted to create and confirm a new password. Choose one that is strong, unique, and not used on any other website.
After completing this, your account will be secure. If you were also notified about using a work email, please proceed to Part 2.
Part 2: Scenario: Your Work Email is Used on the Account
Using a company email for personal services is against Aftra's security policy. You have two options to resolve this.
Option A: Change the Primary Email on Your Account (Recommended)
This is the best option if you wish to keep your Microsoft account and its associated data (OneDrive files, Xbox profile, etc.). You will add a new personal email as an "alias" and make it the primary one for logging in.
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Log In and Go to "Your Info": Log in to your Microsoft account and navigate to the "Your info" tab at the top of the page.
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Edit Sign-in Preferences: Click on "Sign-in preferences". You may be asked to re-enter your password.
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Add a New Alias: Click "Add email". You can either create a brand new
@outlook.comaddress or add an existing personal email address (like from Gmail). Follow the steps to add and verify your new email. -
Make the New Alias Primary: Once the new email is added, click "Make primary" next to it. This will make your personal email the new username for logging into all Microsoft services.
Option B: Permanently Close Your Account
If you no longer need the account, you can close it permanently.
Warning: This action is irreversible after the waiting period. Closing your Microsoft account will delete your emails, OneDrive files, Xbox digital game licenses, Skype credits, and all other associated data.
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Go to the Account Closure Page: Log in to your account, then go directly to the account closure page.
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Follow the Pre-Closure Checklist: Microsoft will guide you through a checklist to ensure you're ready to close the account (like canceling subscriptions). Click "Next" after reviewing it.
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Confirm Understanding: You must check several boxes to acknowledge that you understand you will lose access to all associated services and data.
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Select a Waiting Period & Close: Choose a waiting period (30 or 60 days) before the account is permanently deleted. During this time, the account is marked for closure, but you can cancel the process by logging back in. After the period ends, the account and its data are permanently erased. Click the final button to close the account.
Thank you for taking prompt action to secure your account and comply with your company's security policies.