BitLocker Recovery Key prompted on 2nd hand used laptop. Previous owner unreachable.

[Vi317]

Hello,

I joined a new small company and they gave me a used laptop. 

I am unable to remove the previous user name, there is no visible option to switch and add users. 

I am being prompted to enter the BitLocker Recovery Key when I try to enter into Safe Mode, try to Reset or Repair the laptop. 

I went into the BIOS boot up under security and accidently selected the last option i.e. Restore Security settings to Factory Defaults. So now as I power on the laptop, its prompts for the BitLocker Recovery Key.

Microsoft cannot help as the BitLocker Recovery Key is tied to the previous owners Email address and that person is unreachable. 

From all the online research, the only option is for a fresh Windows 11 install using a boot up USB flash drive but that will require an activation key. 

Can HP help me in providing the BitLocker Recovery Key. I have the laptop and the box which contains serial and other details. 

[Paul_Tikkanen]

Hi:

Unfortunately, no one can help you recover the Bitlocker key and if the notebook came with Windows from HP, the product key is encrypted in the notebook's BIOS, and you would not need the key to reinstall Windows.

Use the HP cloud recovery tool to create a bootable USB recovery drive that will reinstall Windows, the drivers and the software that originally came with your PC.

Here is an info link for how to use the utility.  You will need a 32 GB USB flash drive to create the recovery media with.

HP Consumer PCs - Using the HP Cloud Recovery Tool in Windows 11 and 10 | HP® Customer Support

You can download the software from the Microsoft Store.

HP Cloud Recovery Tool - Microsoft Store Apps

Since you have to use the utility on another PC, you will need to enter your PC's product number in the tool's search window in order to proceed to make the recovery media.