Account Recovery
How to Recover a Locked Account Quickly and Safely
A calm response plan for locked email, social, or service accounts without falling for recovery scams.
Use official recovery channels only
When locked out, users are vulnerable to fake support scams.
Start recovery only through the provider's official website or app.
Action checklist
- Navigate directly to official login page.
- Use built-in Forgot Password or Recovery flow.
- Avoid third-party recovery links.
Verify recovery options
Recovery succeeds faster when backup email and phone options are current.
Update outdated options immediately after regaining access.
Action checklist
- Check recovery email accuracy.
- Check recovery phone number accuracy.
- Save backup codes if offered.
Reset credentials and sessions
After recovering access, assume previous sessions may still be active elsewhere.
Change password and sign out all active sessions.
Action checklist
- Set a new unique password.
- Enable or re-enable MFA.
- Sign out of all sessions and devices.
Audit account activity
Review account activity for unknown access or unauthorized changes.
Check forwarding rules, connected apps, and security notifications.
Action checklist
- Review recent login history.
- Remove unknown third-party app access.
- Check forwarding or recovery changes.