Change to MS Authenticator (Number Matching)

Microsoft is making a small change to its Authenticator service, which will take effect around 27 February 2023.

Kuvituskuva tietokone
News article

Body

When you log in, the application you are trying to log in to (e.g. VDI or MyMail) will display a two-digit code that you must enter into the Authenticator application on your mobile phone ("Number Matching"). The Authenticator also displays information about the application and an approximate map of the location.

This change does not affect those using SMS or verification calls as a means of verification. Traditional password use will still be possible.

Steps to log in

Kuvituskuva
Open the application of your choice (e.g. VDI or MyMail), enter your username and press Next (or Login, etc.).


 
Kuvituskuva
See the two-digit code that appears in the app's login window.

 
Kuvituskuva
Open the Authenticator authentication request on your phone, enter the code and press Done.

You may still need to validate the code entry in Authenticator (e.g. with a security code or fingerprint). The authentication request will be displayed for a while and you may have to search for it, for example by swiping down from the top of your Android phone.
 

This change will improve security and speed up the login process. After this change, MFA with Authenticator will be more secure and convenient than MFA with SMS or confirmation call.

For more information on Authenticator and MFA login, see for example: