Microsoft has updated its Authenticator application to provide users with security notifications whenever suspicious activity is detected on their accounts.
Available for Android, iOS, and Windows Phone, the Microsoft Authenticator app helps users sign into their accounts when two-factor verification is enabled, either by providing a verification code or by accepting the login via a notification.
The app can also be used for phone sign-in, which only requires a username and the mobile device with a fingerprint, face, or PIN (without having to provide a password).
In September 2018, support for Microsoft Authenticator was also added to Azure Active Directory, allowing customers to easily sign into Azure AD connected apps.
The newly announced security notifications feautre, Microsoft’s Alex Simons says, will provide users with additional confidence and visibility into their personal Microsoft account activities.
Security notifications will be delivered for important events, allowing users to view the account activity and immediately take actions to protect their accounts if needed.
“The goal of these notifications is to increase awareness and help you react quickly if there is unexpected activity,” Simons explains.
All users of the Microsoft Authenticator app can receive these security notifications. All they need to do is the latest app version available for them and a personal Microsoft account set up on the Microsoft Authenticator app.
“You’ll automatically start receiving alerts when we detect sensitive or unusual actions on your account, such as changing your password, adding a new phone number or email addresses, or signing in from a new device or unusual location,” Simons says.
When receiving a notification that raises concerns, a user can quickly view account activity and change their password, update the security contact information, or perform other actions to protect their account.
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Ionut Arghire is an international correspondent for SecurityWeek.
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