Microsoft Authenticator for iOS and Android launched in 2016, providing a native two-factor authentication solution for users of those platforms with a Microsoft Account. The app has since been picking up nifty features such as fingerprint support on Android and cloud backup options for accounts on iOS. The app even added the Apple watch as a companion to approve sign-ins. Today, the Redmond giant has announced another feature that is making its way to the apps, and that is the inclusion of security notifications.
Microsoft says that important events occurring on your personal Microsoft account such as password changes, changes to personal information such as email address or phone numbers, sign-ins from unusual locations or new devices now trigger a notification on the Authenticator app, informing users of the changes. Users can then review the changes and take appropriate actions if the need arises. The firm adds that these notifications aim to “increase awareness and help you react quickly if there is unexpected activity”.
The addition of security notifications further improves the app’s functionality and helps monitor any suspicious activity in the age of increasing security threats. If you suspect that your account has been compromised, you can quickly look through your account activity to ascertain if any necessary actions need to be taken in order to secure your account.
Microsoft Authenticator can be used either for MFA (multi-factor authentication) or can be used to directly approve sign-ins through the phone. You can head to the Play Store or the App Store to download the app.
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