Windows 10: Subject: Assistance Required: Lost Device with Microsoft Authenticator Access

Dear Microsoft Support,I hope this message finds you well.Unfortunately, I lost my old phone, and despite of trying to restore the backup on my new phone, I haven't had any luck with restoring my accounts to my new phone, so due to this thing, I've lost access to many important accounts at my end, I'm able to login to my Microsoft account but still unable to retrieve the information regarding some of the other important accounts that were interlinked with my old Microsoft Authentication on the other device. I'd like to know whether its possible to reset the old data of those accounts that are

:)

 

Microsoft Authenticator

Hi,

Thank you for writing to Microsoft Community Forums.

I understand that you want to how the Microsoft Authenticator App works.

The Microsoft Authenticator app helps you sign-in to your accounts if you use two-factor verification. Two-factor verification helps you to access your accounts more securely, especially while viewing
sensitive information. Because passwords can be forgotten, stolen, or compromised, two-factor verification is an additional security step that helps protect your account by making it harder for other people to break in.

You can use the Microsoft Authenticator app in multiple ways, including:

• Respond to a prompt for authentication after you sign in with your username and password.
  
• Sign-in without entering a password, using your username, the authenticator app, and your mobile device with your fingerprint, face, or PIN.
  
• As a code generator for any other accounts that support authenticator apps.
  

I suggest you refer to the article for more information on
What is the Microsoft Authenticator app?and you may also
refer to the article about Microsoft Authenticator app FAQ

However, let me point you in the right direction where you can get the appropriate assistance regarding this issue. I suggest you to post your query in
Microsoft Authenticator App forums
where we have expertise and support professionals.

Hope it helps.

Regards,

Zaki

 

New Microsoft Authenticator version for Android and iOS - Oct. 12

Two factor authentication (TFA) is easy, convenient, and secure when you use Microsoft Authenticator. Use your phone, not your password, to log into your Microsoft account. Just enter your username, then approve the notification sent to your phone. Your fingerprint, face ID, or PIN will provide a second layer of security in this two step verification process. After youve signed in with two factor authentication (TFA), youll have access to all your Microsoft products and services, such as Outlook, OneDrive, Office, and more.

Microsoft Authenticator version 6.2010.6717 for Android

Source: Microsoft Authenticator - Apps on Google Play




Microsoft Authenticator version 6.4.39 for iOS

Download: Microsoft Authenticator | App Store

 

Microsoft Authenticator - mobile always required?

i don't think so its in the name "Authenticator" which is usually going to imply a 2 step process involving an external device in this case a phone. Meaning yes you need it on your phone. There used to be Authenticator devices in the recent past you can still get them but most of it has switched to phone in the last 10 years or so. it is also saying here that to download it for ios or Android. https://support.microsoft.com/en-au/...6-27e523b8702a After reading it looks to be an auto 2fa authentication for phone, meaning any accounts you hold that require 2fa action can just go straight to that Microsoft authenticator and it will log them in seamlessly without input, you would have to install it on your phone. i don't use this so you would have to use it and see . I am sure it will hold your passwords like a manager its just that it will log you in automatically when ever you want to use something with 2fa that is the whole point so that you don't have to retype the pin code.