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How to lock your Windows device via Microsoft's Find My Device

How to lock your Microsoft Windows device remotely if it's lost or stolen

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Written by Tech
Updated over a week ago

Using Microsoft Find My Device on the web

If your device is lost or stolen, lock it online straight away. Follow the steps below to lock it and add a contact message.

1. Visit Find My Device:

2. Locate Your Device:

  • Scroll to the device list

  • Find your missing device and click Show details

3. Activate Lock:

  • Click Find my device

  • Once the map and location load, click Lock

  • Follow the prompts to:

    • Display a custom message on the lock screen (e.g., contact info)

    • Lock the device with your existing password

4. Confirm Lock:

  • Review your settings and confirm the lock


What Happens After Activation?

  • Your device will be locked remotely.

  • A message and optional contact info will be shown on the lock screen.

  • The current user account will be signed out.

  • Location tracking stays active if the device is online.


Unlocking Your Device

Use your existing Microsoft account password to unlock the device when it is recovered.

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