Microsoft is taking a major step toward a passwordless future. Beginning August 1, the company will permanently remove all stored passwords from its Microsoft Authenticator app, shifting exclusively to passkeys, biometrics, and PINs for sign-ins and autofill.
The change is part of Microsoft’s broader effort to improve account security and reduce reliance on traditional passwords, which the company says are increasingly vulnerable to phishing attacks, credential stuffing, and password reuse. According to Microsoft, there are nearly 7,000 password-based attacks every second targeting consumer accounts.
The transition began earlier this summer:
In June, users were blocked from adding or importing new passwords into the app.
In July, the app disabled autofill for stored passwords and payment methods.
On August 1, Microsoft will permanently delete all remaining saved passwords from the app.
Users who rely on the Authenticator app for password management are being urged to export their saved data immediately and consider migrating to a dedicated password manager or Microsoft Edge, which will continue offering secure autofill support.
Instead of passwords, Microsoft is embracing passkeys, a newer security standard backed by Apple, Google, and others. Passkeys are stored securely on users’ devices and unlocked using a fingerprint, face scan, or device PIN - making them far more resistant to phishing and data breaches.
This change will not affect two-factor authentication codes or push notifications used to log in to Microsoft accounts. Those features will remain active.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube