Microsoft has issued a cautionary note regarding potential issues that may arise after the installation of the October 2025 Windows security updates. Users may find their systems unexpectedly booting into BitLocker recovery mode, a feature designed to safeguard data by encrypting storage drives and thwarting unauthorized access.
Understanding BitLocker Recovery
Typically, Windows devices enter BitLocker recovery mode following hardware modifications or updates to the Trusted Platform Module (TPM). This process is necessary to restore access to encrypted drives. According to a service alert reported by BleepingComputer, the current bug predominantly affects Intel devices equipped with support for Connected Standby, also referred to as Modern Standby. This feature allows PCs to maintain network connectivity while operating in a low-power state.
Microsoft elaborated, stating, “After installing Windows Updates released on or after October 14, 2025 (the Originating KBs listed above), some devices might encounter issues during restart or startup.” The company further explained that impacted devices may display the BitLocker recovery screen, prompting users to input their recovery key. Once the key is entered and the device restarts, it should resume normal operation without further BitLocker interruptions.
Affected Platforms and Mitigation Strategies
The known issue affects several platforms, including Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, as well as Windows 10 version 22H2. To alleviate the problem, Microsoft has indicated that IT administrators can implement a group policy through Known Issue Rollback (KIR). However, customers experiencing difficulties are encouraged to reach out to Microsoft Support for business for additional guidance.
This is not the first time Microsoft has faced challenges related to BitLocker recovery prompts. Earlier this year, in May, the company released emergency updates to rectify a similar situation that arose shortly after the May Windows 10 security updates were deployed, following numerous user complaints. Furthermore, in August of the previous year, Microsoft addressed another known issue that triggered BitLocker recovery prompts across Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server devices after the installation of the July 2024 security updates.
In August 2022, a comparable bug caused Windows systems to unexpectedly present the BitLocker recovery screen after the installation of the KB5012170 security update, highlighting ongoing concerns surrounding the stability of security updates and their impact on user experience.
