Microsoft Issues June 1 Warning — Do Not Wait, Save Your Passwords Now

Forbes - May 4th, 2025

Microsoft will cease allowing the storage of new passwords in its Authenticator app starting June 1, 2025, with the autofill feature being phased out by July and all saved passwords becoming inaccessible by August. This move is part of a broader strategy to transition users to passkeys, enhancing security by leveraging technology that is nearly impossible for hackers to exploit. Microsoft encourages users to switch to its Edge browser for password management, emphasizing stronger security through passkey technology.

The shift marks a significant pivot away from traditional passwords, which have become increasingly vulnerable to attacks. Passkeys provide a more secure alternative, supported by key industry players like Apple, Google, and Microsoft since the FIDO Alliance initiative in 2012. This transition aligns with Microsoft’s goal of ending the era of passwords, offering seamless integration with Windows 11 and support for third-party passkey providers. Users are encouraged to explore dedicated password managers for comprehensive security solutions across platforms.

Microsoft Security Windows 11 Passwords Edge Browser Passkeys Fido Alliance Authenticator App

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

7.2

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a timely and generally accurate overview of Microsoft's upcoming changes to its Authenticator app and the broader shift towards passkey technology. It effectively communicates the implications for users and offers practical advice on alternative password management solutions. However, the piece could benefit from more diverse perspectives, particularly from users and cybersecurity experts, to provide a more balanced view. The informal tone and lack of detailed transparency regarding sources and potential conflicts of interest slightly detract from its overall credibility. Nevertheless, the article is engaging, clear, and relevant, making it a valuable resource for readers interested in cybersecurity developments.

Accuracy

The story accurately outlines the changes Microsoft is implementing with its Authenticator app, including the timeline for phasing out password management features. The claims about the shift to Microsoft Edge for password management and the continued support for passkeys align with official announcements from Microsoft. However, the article could benefit from more precise details about the technical aspects of passkey technology and its integration with Microsoft services. The explanation provided by Steve Won about passkeys is clear and aligns with industry standards, adding credibility to the claims.

Balance

The article provides a balanced view of Microsoft's decision to shift from traditional password management to passkeys, including perspectives from Microsoft representatives and an expert from 1Password. However, it leans slightly towards promoting third-party password managers like 1Password and Apple's Passwords app, which might suggest some bias. The article could have included more perspectives from users or cybersecurity experts to provide a more rounded view of the potential impacts of these changes.

Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, with a logical flow of information from the announcement of changes to the implications for users. The language is accessible, and technical terms are explained in a way that is understandable to a general audience. However, the tone is somewhat informal at times, which might detract from the professionalism of the piece. Overall, the clarity of the article helps readers comprehend the complex changes in password management.

Source quality

The article cites credible sources, including statements from Microsoft representatives and an expert from 1Password, which enhances its reliability. However, it lacks direct links to Microsoft's official announcements or technical documentation that would strengthen the credibility of the claims. The reliance on a single expert opinion for passkey technology could be expanded to include more diverse voices from the cybersecurity industry.

Transparency

The article is moderately transparent in explaining the basis of its claims, particularly regarding Microsoft's shift in password management strategy. However, it does not disclose any potential conflicts of interest, such as affiliations with the password managers it recommends. The methodology behind the reported changes, such as how the information was gathered or verified, is not explicitly detailed, which could improve the transparency of the reporting.