- Microsoft Authenticator will stop storing and managing passwords starting August 1.
- Autofill and adding new passwords have been disabled.
- Manual password migration is essential to avoid losing access.
- Microsoft recommends adopting passkeys and centralizing credentials in Edge or other secure managers.
With just days to go until a significant change, Microsoft Authenticator users should prepare for the complete disappearance of the app's built-in password manager. As of August 1, it is no longer possible to access or retrieve keys stored in the app., forcing those who still depend on this system to act quickly to avoid the permanent loss of their information.
During the last years, Microsoft Authenticator offered the option to store, sync, and autofill passwords between devices, facilitating the management of personal and professional credentials. However, Microsoft has opted to phase out traditional password capabilities., investing in new forms of authentication and reinforcing its commitment to passwordless security.
The end of passwords in Microsoft Authenticator
The process of removing the Authenticator password manager began months ago, when new password additions were blocked and autofill was disabled. On August 1st, all saved passwords were deleted., leaving the application solely as a tool for two-step authentication (2FA) codes and passkey management.
This decision is not improvised. Microsoft has been warning throughout this year about the gradual closure of these functions, although Many users have received the final warning with very little room for maneuver.The company justifies the move on security grounds and the low adoption of the integrated manager, which failed to achieve the popularity of other solutions on the market.
How to save your passwords before the expiration date
If you still have passwords stored in Authenticator, you should export them manually from the applicationTo do this, go to the autocomplete section within the app and use the export function, which will generate a CSV file with all your keys.
Those who have their accounts synced with a Microsoft account will be able to recover passwords from Edge or Windows, but if they have never signed in or exported data, There is no way to recover them after August 1st.
Alternatives and future of secure authentication
In the face of closure, Microsoft suggests using the Edge password manager, which keeps your accounts synchronized. Other recommended options include open source managers such as Bitwarden o KeePass, as well as commercial solutions like 1Password or NordPass. Each offers advantages in terms of security, ease of use, and the ability to sync across devices.
The most relevant change is the commitment to passkeysThis system, promoted by the FIDO Alliance and supported by Microsoft, Google, Apple, and other giants, allows authentication using biometric data (fingerprint, face) or a local PIN, eliminating the need to remember complex passwords and reducing the risk of phishing or mass attacks. Passkeys remain on the device and cannot be stolen like conventional passwords..
Setting up passkeys in Authenticator is a simple process: From the app itself you can choose your account and activate the access code., following the biometric verification or PIN entry instructions.
This shift towards passwordless authentication means greater security in a context plagued by cybercrime, But also requires users to adapt to new access methods and responsibly manage the migration of their dataThe disappearance of the password manager in Authenticator forces us to review our digital security and choose the solution that best suits our current needs.
It is important to note that, for the purpose of the password manager, The trend towards more secure and convenient authentication systems is strengthening.Exporting your passwords as soon as possible and exploring advanced authentication options will be key to maintaining security and control over all your accounts in the coming months.
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