Steam and is it just my lack of patience?

[Varlesh]

Hi,
I recently replaced my hard drive after it failed. On re-installing Steam I got the usual notification of :You are accessing Steam from a new browser message and the subsequent e-mail validation option. After waiting for 3 hours for the e-mail I decided to contact Steam support to enquire about the lack of contact. Unfortunately to contact Steam support you also have to validate your account by receiving another confirmation e-mail. This didn't arrive either so I'm spitting feathers at Steam's ludicrous security system. I've spent hundreds of pounds accumulating an extensive games library and I can't access it.
So, basically has anyone else been faced with this problem and how long did they have to wait for a reply?

 

[MrNiemo]

Are you sure you're checking the email address associated with your Steam account, and have you made sure the email didn't end up in your "junk" folder? I've waited a couple of minutes for those emails, but never more than a couple of minutes.

 

[King_V]

They've always showed up nearly instantaneously for me.

 

[MrNiemo]

While frustrating, these security checks are very necessary these days. Lots of Steam accounts are getting stolen. (http://www.businessinsider.com/steam-trading-theft-hijacking-2015-12) I highly recommend setting up their mobile authenticator if you have a supported mobile device, once you get this worked out of course.

 

[Varlesh]

Yes, I check my spam folder on a regular basis.
I've been a Steam customer for over ten years and I've heard plenty of stories about their lack of reliability in support but never experienced it for myself. It's extremely frustrating that their security system is this flawed.
I'm using Steam Guard because I felt it was necessary and I applaud the concept but when you experience the lack of communication after a problem arises it raises doubts about the relationship you think you have with Steam. The Mobile Authentication system when delivered through a landline is so garbled it takes three people to try and decipher the digitised voice. By the way, using this method didn't solve the issue either.