Windows 10: Unable to add a phone number to my account

I have been trying for at least 2 weeks now to add a phone number to my Microsoft account under Account info. First, when entering the number and before I would get a code, I received the message, "Try another verification method" when I'm given no other choice. Then when I could finally get past that and given the opportunity to enter the code sent to my phone, I get the message, "Temporary problem with the service. Please try again." Temporary my a??! I search and see people having reported this back in MAY!! I have tried 3 browsers on 3 different devices and always the same problems.The ann

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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.

 

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.

 

Account Phone Number

Hi Johnny,

If you didn’t get the security code that was sent to your
phone number, you may still recover your account by filling out the security questionnaire. To help you recover your account, we suggest that you follow the steps provided in this article
when you can't sign in to your Microsoft account.
Once you’re on the page, you may expand and proceed with the steps under the
If you can't get a security code section, and then complete the process.

After completing the steps and if the issue persists, you may continue following the steps given in this article on how to
recover your Microsoft account. Follow the given steps and provide the needed
information to complete the process. Once you’re done, you may check if you’re able to recover your Microsoft account.

Keep us updated about your concern for additional assistance.