Computer says "No"

It’s been a couple of rather frustrating days, due to difficulties accessing my most frequently used email account. Fortunately, it isn’t the account I use for really important stuff, and it’s not the one I use for the blog, either. Blogger has its own, user-friendly platform that you can type straight into, but after having lost several posts, back in the early days of the blog, I instead type up the text in Word- built in spell-checker, plus a programme that saves as you type. I then copy and paste the whole thing in via the Blogger Dashboard.

The frustrating thing with not being able to access one’s account, is having to change the password, each time, and earlier this evening I had to change it twice. Perhaps I didn’t allow enough time between changes – who knows, but being an inquisitive type, I resorted to asking Copilot. I didn’t expect quite as much chapter and verse, but this is what the much-vaunted AI came up with.

 Guidance for Resolving Problems Accessing Your Email Accounts

Introduction

Many people experience difficulties when trying to access their email accounts. These issues can arise from a variety of sources, including forgotten passwords, technical glitches, or security measures. This guide provides step-by-step advice to help you regain access to your email accounts.

Common Reasons for Access Issues

• Incorrect Password or Username: You may have entered your credentials incorrectly.
• Account Locked or Suspended: Multiple failed login attempts can result in a temporary lock-out.
• Forgotten Password: It's easy to forget passwords, especially if you have multiple accounts.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Problems: Issues with receiving codes or using authenticator apps.
• Connectivity Issues: Poor internet connection may prevent you from accessing your account.
• Browser or App Problems: Outdated browsers or apps may not work properly with email services.
• Security Compromises: Your account may have been compromised and temporarily disabled for protection. 

  Ensure you are using the correct email address and password.

1. Check for accidental use of CAPS LOCK or incorrect keyboard layout.
2. Use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page.
3. Follow the steps to reset your password via your recovery email or phone number.
4. Ensure you are connected to the internet.
5. Try accessing your email from a different device or network.
6. Ensure your web browser or email app is up to date.
7. Clear your browser cache and cookies, then restart the browser.
8. Check your device for 2FA codes.
9. If you cannot access your 2FA method, use backup codes or contact support.
10. Watch for messages about your account being locked or suspended.
11. Follow the instructions provided to regain access.
12. If none of the above steps work, visit your email provider’s help centre.
13. Provide as much information as possible to verify your identity.

Additional Tips

• Use a password manager to keep track of your passwords securely.
• Regularly update your recovery information (phone number and alternate email).
• Be cautious of phishing emails and scams that attempt to steal your login details.
• Periodically review your account’s security settings.

Conclusion

While it can be frustrating to lose access to your email account, following these steps should help you identify and resolve the problem. For persistent issues, contacting your email provider’s support team is the best course of action.

I don't think the problem I had, was due to any of the above, especially as most of the suggestions AI came up with were blindingly obvious. But whatever the cause, it does demonstrate just how reliant we all are when it comes to communicating electronically, and just how vulnerable we all are when something goes wrong!

ps. Normal service will be resumed over the next day, or so, as there's lots of beer, pubs and upcoming travel experiences for me to write about, as well as my review of the year. All, far more interesting than my technology problems.