enable phone sign in microsoft authenticator

I will assume you are up on why you should be securing your Microsoft account with two-step verification-Microsoft’s name for two-factor authentication, or 2FA, sort of-but if not, you’re in luck: I’ve been writing about this a lot lately. But it looks like the Android version got this new feature a week ago. I just noticed this today as the iOS version of the app was just updated. Microsoft is looking for feedback on its new system, so if you have something to say about it, don’t be afraid to let the company know.Microsoft Authenticator has been updated on both Android and iPhone in recent days with an interesting new feature called phone sign-in. However, these sorts of security features have the potential to benefit the least secure out there, so removing a potential password reuse login system for those users could lead to improved overall digital security for some. There will be options for password usage if your phone isn’t with you, which could open up a vector for more traditional hacking. To be one of the first to trial this smartphone-only authentication system, download or open up the app on your handset, select the drop-down button on your account and choose “Enable phone sign-in.” That’s it.

It may add support for that much smaller user group in the future, we’re told, but only if this feature sees some success. It is also limited to iOS and Android platforms for now, despite the app being compatible with Windows phones. While Microsoft’s login system does let you use the authenticator app to double down on security for a number of sites and services, the Microsoft account can be logged into with smartphone authentication only. Consider too that most people already have a pin code or similar security on their phone and the firm believes smartphone logins are secure enough while feeling “natural and familiar.” The problem with a password, Microsoft claims in its explanatory blog post (via Ars), is that passwords can be easily phished, stolen, or forgotten.

Enable phone sign in microsoft authenticator