Learn what to do if you find charges you don't recognize from Microsoft.

Learn how to redeem a Microsoft/Xbox gift card or other code on your mobile device, Windows device, or Xbox console.

In order to cancel the fake order, you'll either have to click a link or call them on the telephone. Either way, the ultimate goal of the scammers is to get you to give them some personal information. They'll claim it's for the purposes of canceling the fake order.

You'll first want to find out if your Windows 11 is activated and linked to your Microsoft account. It is essential that you link your Microsoft account to the Windows 11 license on your device.

Using remote access, these experienced scammers can misrepresent normal system messages as signs of problems. Scammers might also initiate contact by displaying fake error messages on websites you visit, displaying support numbers and enticing you to call.

Activation helps verify that your copy of Windows is genuine and hasn’t been used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow. This article will help you troubleshoot and fix common activation errors in Windows. For help finding your product key, see Find your Windows product key.

Cybercriminals typically pretend to be reputable companies, friends, or acquaintances in a fake message, which contains a link to a phishing website. Select the headings below for more information. Learn how to identify a phishing scam, designed to steal money via fake emails.

Microsoft is modernizing the activation experience for perpetual licenses. Beginning December 3, 2025, the traditional telephone-based product activation automation process has been moved from telephone to online. Customers will instead use the Product Activation Portal: Product Activation Portal.

Step 1: Go to www.office.com/setup or Microsoft365.com/setup. Step 2: Sign in with your Microsoft account, or create one if you don't have one. Be sure to remember this account so that you can install or reinstall Office later, without a product key.

Learn how to find a Windows product key for activation, and when you'll use a digital license instead.