How to Move or Reset Microsoft Authenticator for Office 365

If you're replacing your phone or lost access to your device, follow these steps to transfer or reset your Microsoft 365 Authenticator.

Scenario 1: Moving Microsoft Authenticator to a New Phone (Planned Transfer)

If you still have access to your old phone, follow these steps:

Step 1: Backup Your Microsoft Authenticator

1. Open Microsoft Authenticator on your old phone.
2. Tap the three-dot menu (⋮) in the top-right corner and select Settings.
3. Enable Cloud Backup (for iOS, it uses iCloud; for Android, it uses your Microsoft account).
4. Confirm that the backup is successful.

Step 2: Install Authenticator on Your New Phone

1. Download Microsoft Authenticator from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
2. Open the app and Sign in with your Microsoft account (same as the one used for backup).
3. It will prompt you to restore your saved accounts.
4. Select Restore and verify if needed.

Step 3: Verify and Update Your Accounts

1. Open the Security Info page: https://mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info.
2. Confirm that your new phone is listed as an authentication method.
3. Remove the old phone (if needed).
4. Try signing in to any Microsoft service to ensure authentication works.

Scenario 2: Resetting Microsoft Authenticator After Losing a Phone

If your phone is lost or stolen, you need to regain access to your Microsoft account first.

Step 1: Sign in Using an Alternate Method

1. Go to https://mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info.
2. Choose Sign in another way if prompted.
3. Use:
   • A backup phone number (SMS or call).
   • An alternate email.
   • A backup code (if previously saved).
4. Once signed in, remove the old device from the Security Info section.

Step 2: Reconfigure Microsoft Authenticator on a New Phone

1. Install the Microsoft Authenticator app on your new device.
2. Go to Security Info and click Add a sign-in method.
3. Select Authenticator App, follow the instructions, and scan the QR code with the new phone.
4. Confirm it works by signing into a Microsoft service.

Step 3: Secure Your Account (If Phone Was Stolen)

• Change your Microsoft account password immediately.
• Remove any unrecognized devices from your account at https://account.microsoft.com/devices.
• Enable two-step verification if not already active.