Microsoft is warning users that their passwords will be deleted soon from its popular free app, Microsoft Authenticator. The tech giant is removing the password storage tool and phasing it out in stages.
From June, users will no longer be able to save new passwords on the app, and in July, the autofill function that automatically adds login details onto webpages will stop working. In August, the entire saved passwords tool will cease, and any stored login data will be deleted.
Despite this, Microsoft Authenticator’s passkey and two-factor authentication features will continue to work normally. The company has shifted its focus away from traditional passwords, which are easily hacked due to common mistakes like re-used passwords or easily guessed terms.
Security expert Chris Hauk notes that passkeys offer an advantage over passwords, as they eliminate the need to enter an email address and password to log in, and cannot be shared, guessed, or stolen. Passkeys are unique to each website or app they’re created for and require biometric authentication to use.
Users are advised to export their saved info (passwords only) from Authenticator until Autofill ends in July 2025. They can also access their passwords via Microsoft Edge at any time by turning on the autofilling feature with an alternative provider.
Source: https://www.thesun.co.uk/tech/35164363/urgent-warning-passwords-deleted-microsoft-authenticator