Why Am I Getting Password Reset Emails I Didn't Request?

BACK TO THE USER · SCAMS & SECURITY

An email arrives saying someone requested a password reset. You didn't. It feels like a break-in, but a reset request alone doesn't prove that anybody got into the account.

The quick answer

Don't click unexpected reset links. Instead, open the service's official app or website directly, review account security, and make sure you use a unique password and multifactor authentication. The email may reflect a mistaken entry, an automated attack, or an impersonation attempt.

What a reset request really means

Many services send a reset message whenever somebody enters an email address into a 'Forgot password' form. The sender doesn't necessarily know your password or have account access. That said, repeated attempts are worth reviewing, especially if you receive unfamiliar sign-in alerts too.

Verify that the message is genuine

A phishing email can pretend to be a password-reset notice and supply a fake sign-in link. The safest route is to ignore its buttons and open the service independently through a trusted bookmark or app. If the account's security page shows recent unfamiliar activity, act on that evidence.

What to do right now

  1. Do not approve any sign-in prompt you didn't initiate.
  2. Check your account's recent sign-ins or security dashboard where available.
  3. Confirm the password is unique; change it if you suspect exposure.
  4. Enable multifactor authentication and keep recovery information current.
  5. Report phishing messages through the service's built-in reporting option.

When the emails keep coming

If an attacker knows your email address, you may not be able to prevent reset requests entirely. Email filters can reduce noise, but don't create a rule that hides legitimate account-security notifications altogether. Keep looking for actual sign-ins, unexpected password changes, or recovery-method changes.

The important distinction

A request to reset your password is not the same as a successful reset. Judge the situation using evidence from the real account, not the alarming tone of one email.

Need a second set of eyes?

If you're concerned about your device or accounts, contact Tech IT or Leave IT. Or browse more Scams & Security guides.

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