You click the link to change your password. The page loads, and instead of asking for your new password, it takes you right back to the same place again. You try once more, but the same thing happens. That is a password reset loop.

It feels annoying, right? You do everything right, yet you can’t move forward. Don’t worry. Many people face this same problem. The good news is that it’s usually easy to fix once you know what’s causing it. 

In this blog, I will talk about this issue and how to fix that. So, let’s begin the discussion with the definition of reset loop of password. 

What Is a Password Reset Loop

A password reset loop happens when the reset process keeps restarting instead of finishing. You get the reset email, click the link, and instead of reaching the page to enter your new password, you’re sent back to the reset request screen.

LIt’s like going in circles with no way out. This problem appears on many platforms  from company portals to Apple ID and Salesforce. It’s not always the website’s fault. Sometimes, it’s caused by how your browser, email, or security system handles the reset link.

Why a Password Reset Loop Happens

There are a few common reasons behind a password reset loop. Understanding them helps you fix the issue faster.

So, let’s see the reasons behind the reset loop of password. 

1. Security Software Scanning the Link

Email security tools often scan links before you open them. This includes programs like Barracuda, Mimecast, and GreatHorn. They do this to keep you safe from phishing. But sometimes, they “use” your password reset link before you do.

Once the link is triggered by the software, it becomes invalid. When you click it later, it doesn’t work and you’re sent back into a password reset loop.

To fix this, ask your IT team to whitelist the sender’s domain. That way, your email filter won’t break the link before you open it.

2. Link Rewriting by Email Systems

Outlook Safe Links and similar tools rewrite links for security. They change the original link into a new one to scan for threats. But the password reset system may not recognize the new link. When that happens, it sends you back to the start and the reset loop begins.

The solution is simple. Ask your IT team to whitelist the domain that sends the password reset emails. Or request a new reset link and open the plain text version of the email if it’s available.

3. Browser Cache and Cookies

Your browser saves website data to make things faster. But sometimes that stored data causes login and reset issues. If your browser uses an old session, it can trap you in a reset loop.

To fix this, clear your cache and cookies. Close your browser. Reopen it, then click the reset link again. You can also try using an incognito window or a different browser.

4. Expired or Used Links

A password reset link often expires after a short time, sometimes just an hour. Some links also expire after one click, even if the reset isn’t finished. If you click the same link again, you’ll be sent back to the reset screen.

This is one of the most common causes of a reset loop. The fix is easy. Request a new reset email, then use that latest link right away. Don’t reuse old ones.

5. Account or Security Problems

In some cases, the reset loop is not caused by the link itself but by your account. When the system notices unusual activity, such as several failed login attempts, it may temporarily block the reset process.

Run a quick security check on your device. Make sure it’s free of viruses or malware. Then try the reset again from a different device or browser.

6. Software or System Bugs

Sometimes the website or app itself is at fault. A bug in the system can cause a reset loop even when you do everything right. This sometimes happens after updates or maintenance.

If you suspect this, check the service’s support or system status page. If others are reporting the same problem, wait for the company to fix it or contact support for help.

How to Fix a Password Reset Loop

You must follow simple steps to stop the reset loop and regain access to your account.

So, the steps are:

Let’s learn about the steps in details here: 

Step 1: Clear Cache and Cookies

Go to your browser settings. Clear browsing data, including cookies and cached files. Restart your browser, then click the password reset link again.

Step 2: Use a Different Browser or Device

If the loop continues, try another browser. Switch from Chrome to Firefox or Safari. Or use your phone instead of your computer. Sometimes, browser extensions or old settings cause the reset loop.

Step 3: Check for Link Changes

Place your mouse over the link in your reset email before clicking it. If the link looks strange or starts with safelinks.protection.outlook.com, it has been changed. Ask your IT team to allow the sender’s domain and then request a new reset link.

Step 4: Whitelist the Sender Domain

If your company uses strict email protection, ask them to whitelist the sender. This keeps your password reset emails intact and prevents another reset loop for password in the future.

Step 5: Adjust Security Software Settings

Your antivirus software might be scanning links automatically. Turn off that feature temporarily. Request a new password reset link, complete the reset, and then turn it back on.

Step 6: Make Sure Cookies Are Enabled

Some websites use cookies to verify the reset process. If cookies are disabled, you may get stuck in a reset loop. Go to your browser’s privacy settings and make sure cookies are allowed for the site.

Step 7: For Salesforce Users

If you use Salesforce Experience Cloud, there’s an admin fix. Go to Setup → Profiles → Affected Experience Profile → Password Policies. Then check “Don’t immediately expire links in forgotten password emails.” This helps stop reset links from expiring too soon and creating a reset loop.

When It Happens on iPhone

Some users face a different problem where the iPhone keeps restarting. This is not a password problem but a reset loop at the device level.

If your phone keeps restarting, press and release the volume up button, then volume down, and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears. If that fails, connect your phone to a computer, open iTunes or Finder, and restore your device.

This is not the same as a reset loop for password, but both situations share one thing: they trap you in a repeat cycle that’s frustrating until you fix it.

How to Prevent Another Password Reset Loop

Once you fix a reset loop of password, you’ll want to make sure it doesn’t happen again. Here are a few habits that help.

Keep Recovery Info Up to Date

Make sure your backup email and phone number are always current. This makes future resets faster and avoids confusion.

Use the Latest Browser

Older browsers may not handle password reset links correctly. Keep yours updated to avoid another password reset loop.

Don’t Request Too Many Links

If you click “Forgot Password” multiple times, you’ll receive several emails. Only the newest one works. Using older links causes a password reset loop because they’re no longer valid.

Clear Browser Data Often

Old browser data can create issues. Clearing your cache every few weeks keeps your browser fresh and prevents login problems.

Ask IT to Whitelist Trusted Senders

If you work in a company with strict email filters, have IT whitelist the domains that send password reset links. This small step can save you from another password reset loop later.

When to Contact Support

If none of these steps work and the password reset loop continues, reach out to the website’s support team. Tell them what browser you used, whether the link opened, and if it redirected you. Include the time and date you requested the reset email.

Support teams can check their logs to see if your link expired early or was scanned by security software. They can also manually reset your password or unlock your account.

Final Thoughts

Getting stuck in a password reset loop can be stressful, but it’s almost always fixable. The issue usually comes down to expired links, cached browser data, or security software scanning your link too early.

By clearing your cache, using a fresh reset link, or asking your IT team to whitelist the sender, you can usually solve it within minutes. After you’re back in, update your security settings and recovery information so it’s easier next time.

So next time you get stuck in a reset loop, stay calm. You now know what steps to take to get back into your account safely.