How do I remove an unknown account in Windows 10?

To remove an unknown account from your Windows 10 device, follow these simple steps:

1. Check the Account Details. Before deleting, confirm that the account is truly unknown or unwanted. Navigate to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users. Here, you’ll see a list of user accounts. If an account looks unfamiliar, double-check its username and account type.
2. Back Up Important Data. If the account belongs to someone else or contains vital files, ensure you have necessary permissions or back up its data. Use cloud services like OneDrive, Google Drive, or an external drive to save important information.
3. Deleting the Unknown Account via Settings. The easiest method:
   • Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
   • Select Accounts, then click Family & other users.
   • Under Other users, find the account you want to remove.
   • Click on it and select Remove.
   • Confirm by clicking Delete account and data. This action removes the account along with its files.
4. Using Control Panel. If the account isn’t visible in Settings:
   • Type Control Panel in the search bar and open it.
   • Go to User Accounts > User Accounts.
   • Click on Manage another account.
   • Select the suspicious account from the list.
   • Click Delete the account. You’ll be prompted whether to keep or delete the account’s files. Choose Delete Files to fully remove it.
5. Use Command Prompt (Advanced). If other methods fail:
   • Right-click the Start button and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows Terminal (Admin).
   • Type: net user and press Enter to view all accounts.
   • Identify the account name you wish to delete.
   • Type: net user [AccountName] /delete replacing [AccountName] with the exact account name.
   • Press Enter, then restart your PC to complete the removal.
6. Final Checks and Restart. After removing the account, restart your computer to ensure the changes take effect. Confirm that the account no longer appears in the user list.

Why You Might See Unknown Accounts in Windows 10

If you notice unfamiliar or unknown accounts appearing on your Windows 10 device, it can be concerning. These accounts might be listed in the Accounts settings or during login. Understanding the reasons behind these accounts helps you determine whether they are harmless or require further action.

Unknown accounts in Windows 10 can occur for various reasons, including system processes or security issues. Sometimes, they are created accidentally, or they may indicate unauthorized access. Knowing common causes can help you protect your device and understand what steps to take next.

Common Reasons for Unknown Accounts

1. System-Generated Accounts: Windows creates built-in accounts for system functions or features. Accounts like “Guest” or “Administrator” are usually disabled by default but can appear if certain processes create temporary or hidden accounts during updates or troubleshooting.
2. Linked Microsoft or Local Accounts: If you’ve linked your device to a Microsoft account, it may appear in the accounts list. Multiple local accounts might also show up, especially if other users have logged into the device.
3. Recent Device Integrations: Devices or apps that connect to your Windows 10 PC, such as third-party services or IoT devices, might create accounts for authentication. These can sometimes be unfamiliar if you haven’t set them up intentionally.
4. Unauthorized Access or Malware: The most serious cause is potential malicious activity. Malicious software could create hidden or generic accounts like “Guest” or random strings to maintain control or spy on activity. Such accounts often have elevated privileges or suspicious names.
5. System Errors or Profile Corruption: Sometimes, system glitches or corrupted user profiles lead to the appearance of strange accounts. These are not typical user accounts but rather system errors.

Signs of Unwanted Accounts

• Unfamiliar accounts with odd or random names.
• Accounts without passwords or set to “Guest” mode.
• Accounts with admin privileges that you didn’t create.
• Sudden appearance after system updates or changes.
• Suspicious activity in logs or user folders.

Important Tips

• If you suspect unauthorized access, change your passwords immediately.
• Run antivirus and anti-malware scans regularly.
• Review user accounts periodically for unfamiliar entries.
• Disable or delete unrecognized accounts that are unnecessary.
• Keep Windows 10 updated with the latest security patches.

Preparing to Remove the Unknown Account

Before deleting an unknown or suspicious account, take appropriate precautions to protect your data and prevent system issues. Proper preparation ensures a smooth removal process.

1. Back Up Data. Save important files, emails, and settings associated with the account. Use cloud storage or an external drive to secure your data.
2. Verify Ownership. Make sure you understand who owns the account. If suspicious, treat it with caution.
3. Secure Your System. Update security software, run antivirus scans, and change passwords for linked accounts to prevent malware spread.
4. Assess Impact. Check what services or apps rely on the account. Note important details in case you need to restore data later.
5. Create a Recovery Plan. Save recovery options like email addresses, phone numbers, or security questions to restore access if needed.

Following these steps minimizes risks while deleting unknown accounts. If the account appears malicious, consult a professional before proceeding.

Securing Your Windows 10 After Account Removal

After removing an account, ensure your device remains secure. Take these steps to protect your system:

1. Change Your Administrator Password. Update your main account password to a strong, unique one via Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options. Use a mix of characters for better security.
2. Enable Windows Security Features. Confirm Windows Defender Antivirus is active via Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security.
3. Activate BitLocker. Encrypt your drive to safeguard data: Control Panel > System and Security > BitLocker Drive Encryption.
4. Update Credentials. Change passwords for linked accounts, enable two-factor authentication, and review security settings.
5. Remove Unused Accounts and Devices. Disconnect any unnecessary linked accounts or devices from Settings > Accounts.
6. Backup Your Data. Perform regular backups to protect against data loss or attacks using Windows Backup or third-party tools.

Helpful Tips to Prevent Unauthorized Accounts

To reduce the risk of future unknown accounts, follow these best practices:

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords. Avoid common or predictable passwords, and change them regularly.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication. Add an extra verification step to your accounts for enhanced security.
3. Secure Device Access. Set a strong PIN or password, avoiding simple codes like 1234.
4. Keep Software Updated. Regular updates patch vulnerabilities and improve security.
5. Review User Permissions. Regularly check user accounts and restrict or remove unrecognized access.
6. Use Antivirus Software. Install and update reputable security tools to detect threats early.
7. Avoid Public Wi-Fi Risks. Use VPNs when accessing sensitive info over unsecured networks.
8. Monitor Account Activity. Regularly review login logs and activity for unauthorized access.
9. Limit Guest Accounts. Disable guest access unless necessary.
10. Be Wary of Phishing. Beware of scams that could lead to account compromises or malware.