Share this article
Improve this guide
Event ID 4738: A User Account was Changed [Fix]
It maintains an accurate audit trail of user account changes
4 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
Share this article
Improve this guide
Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial teamRead more
Key notes
Event ID 4738 is an alert inWindows Event Viewerwhen a user account undergoes modifications. It is crucial to address this event promptly to maintain the integrity and security of your machine.
In this guide, we will delve into the causes behind this Event ID 4738 anonymous logon, discuss the potential consequences of such account changes, and provide practical solutions to rectify the issue.
What is Event ID 4738?
Event ID 4738 is a Windows security event indicating auser account change. When a change is made to a user account, such as a change in user rights, group memberships, or password updates, Windows generates this event to log it.
The event allows administrators to track changes made to user accounts, monitor privileged access, and investigate any unauthorized or suspicious account modifications.
It provides essential details such as the user account’s name, security identifier (SID), and specific changes.
Additionally, it includes information about the process or user responsible for the account change and the date and time when the modification occurred.
By monitoring and analyzing the event, administrators can maintain an accurateaudit trailof user account changes, identify potential security breaches or unauthorized access attempts, and ensure compliance with security policies and regulations.
There are various reasons why you keep an eye on this Event ID; some of the common ones are:
This event plays a crucial role in maintaining your systems’ integrity, Security, and stability.
How can I fix Event ID 4738: A User Account was Changed?
1. Identify the specific user account
This information will help you understand whether the modification is intentional or unauthorized.
2. Validate the changes
If someone made a legitimate and intended change to the account, such asupdating the passwordor making a modification as a system administrator, you may not need to take any further action.
However, ensuring the changes align with the organization’s security policies and procedures is essential.
However, if the account change appears suspicious or unauthorized, it is crucial to investigate further for any signs of a security breach or unauthorized access to the affected user account.
3. Change user account credentials
Ensure the new password follows strong security practices, such as using a combination of alphanumeric characters and symbols.
By following the steps outlined here, you can take the necessary actions to resolve Event ID 4738 and safeguard your device from unauthorized access or malicious activities.
Also, monitor the affected user account and related system logs for any subsequent events or signs of suspicious activity.
You must regularly update passwords and implement security policies and procedures to prevent unauthorized account changes.
If the event recurrence suggests a larger security concern, it may be necessary to conduct a thorough security audit, review access controls, and consider implementing advanced security solutions such asintrusion detection systemsor security information and event management(SIEM) tools.
Please feel free to give us any information, tips, and your experience with the subject in the comments section below.
More about the topics:Event Viewer,windows 10,Windows 11
Srishti Sisodia
Windows Software Expert
Srishti Sisodia is an electronics engineer and writer with a passion for technology. She has extensive experience exploring the latest technological advancements and sharing her insights through informative blogs.
Her diverse interests bring a unique perspective to her work, and she approaches everything with commitment, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn. That’s why she’s part of Windows Report’s Reviewers team, always willing to share the real-life experience with any software or hardware product. She’s also specialized in Azure, cloud computing, and AI.
User forum
0 messages
Sort by:LatestOldestMost Votes
Comment*
Name*
Email*
Commenting as.Not you?
Save information for future comments
Comment
Δ
Srishti Sisodia
Windows Software Expert
She is an electronics engineer and writer with a passion for technology. Srishti is specialized in Azure, cloud computing, and AI.
