How to Secure Your Outlook / Hotmail Account

1. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Microsoft supports several MFA methods. Using the Microsoft Authenticator app is the most secure option.

Go to account.microsoft.com → Security → Advanced security options Click Add a new way to sign in or verify Set up Microsoft Authenticator app (recommended) Alternatively use a phone number or third-party authenticator Enable passwordless sign-in for the strongest protection

2. Review Connected Apps and Services

Go to account.microsoft.com → Privacy → Apps and services Review all apps that have access to your account Remove permissions for apps you no longer use Be wary of apps requesting broad permissions Check consent history for unexpected authorisations

3. Update Recovery Information

Go to account.microsoft.com → Security → Security basics Add or update your recovery email address Verify your recovery phone number is current Set up a trusted device for account recovery Generate and safely store a recovery code

4. Monitor Sign-In Activity

Check Recent activity under Security settings Review sign-in locations and devices Look for any sign-ins you don't recognise Click Secure your account if you see suspicious activity Sign out of all sessions and change your password if needed

5. Strengthen Your Password

Use a unique password of at least 16 characters Avoid dictionary words and personal information Use a password manager to generate and store passwords Never reuse your Microsoft password elsewhere Consider going fully passwordless with Microsoft Authenticator

6. Configure Outlook-Specific Settings

Disable POP/IMAP if you only use the web or Outlook app Check email forwarding rules for anything you didn't set up Review inbox rules and sweep settings Enable Focused Inbox to help filter phishing attempts Turn on email encryption for sensitive messages