Microsoft Acknowledges That May Windows 10 Updates Activate BitLocker Recovery Mode

Microsoft has acknowledged that certain Windows 10 and Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 systems are experiencing issues after the installation of the May 2025 security updates, specifically leading to situations where devices boot into BitLocker recovery mode.

BitLocker is a Windows security feature designed to encrypt storage drives, enhancing data protection against theft. Typically, systems enter BitLocker recovery mode due to events such as Trusted Platform Module (TPM) updates or significant hardware changes.

According to Microsoft’s statement, the problem affects “a small number” of Windows 10 PCs that display the BitLocker recovery screen following the installation of the KB5058379 update. On these affected devices, repeated failures to boot after the update installation can trigger an Automatic Repair sequence. If BitLocker is enabled, users are prompted to enter their BitLocker recovery key to proceed with the Automatic Repair process.

Users who encounter this issue can examine the Windows Event Viewer, which reveals LSASS errors and installation failures logged as 0x800F0845. Some users report being stuck in a loop requiring the BitLocker recovery key after unsuccessful Startup Repairs, while others find that their systems revert to the previous configuration after multiple installation attempts.

To access the BitLocker recovery key, users can log into the BitLocker recovery screen portal using their Microsoft account. Detailed instructions on locating the recovery key can be found in Microsoft’s support documentation.

Microsoft is actively investigating the matter and plans to release further information about the root cause of the issue as it becomes available.

Reports on this issue have emerged from a diverse array of users and system administrators, highlighting a range of hardware from manufacturers such as Lenovo, Dell, and HP. The exact cause of the problem remains uncertain, with no clear indication that it relates to a specific hardware or software fault.

User feedback includes comments on Microsoft’s forums, indicating that the latest KB5058379 update has led to BitLocker prompts for multiple devices, with varying symptoms such as boot failures.

For systems caught on the BitLocker recovery screen, Microsoft support suggests potential solutions, including disabling Intel Trusted Execution Technology (TXT) from the BIOS, or considering adjustments to Secure Boot, Virtualization Technologies, or Firmware Protection if problems persist.

Previously, Microsoft addressed similar issues in August 2024 that triggered BitLocker prompts after installing the July 2024 Windows security updates. Additionally, a related complication occurred in August 2022 with the KB5012170 security update, which similarly caused devices to land on the BitLocker recovery screen after installation.