Auto-reply changed without me
Short answer
An unfamiliar automatic reply can indicate a changed mailbox rule or account setting. Confirm it in the provider settings and look for other unexplained changes.
What you need to know
Check a visible symptom and its cause.
-
Compare the reply, schedule and scope
Record whether the response is an automatic-reply setting or a separate rule. Ask whether a delegated user or organization administrator intentionally changed it. A sender’s report alone may not show which control generated the reply.
-
Fix the reply and inspect adjacent controls
Microsoft’s compromised-account guidance includes checking automatic replies, forwarding and connected accounts. Do not stop after removing a visible reply if other unapproved changes remain. Verify the configured setting after saving it.
Check, act, and the limit
-
Start by checking
Read the full reply and its configured schedule.
-
Then act
Remove the unwanted reply, inspect forwarding and recent activity, then secure sign-ins.
-
Know the limit
A work admin or delegated user may also have changed the setting.
Next guide: Outlook security check
Official sources
Provider security pages this guide is based on. Product details change, so check them before acting.
- Microsoft Support: compromised account support.microsoft.com
HackEmail is an independent guide. We never ask for your password or verification codes, never read messages and never access anyone’s inbox. Not affiliated with Google, Microsoft, Apple or Yahoo.