MFA issue with Authenticator app

ESBN_micro 0 Reputation points
2026-05-08T11:30:34.34+00:00

I am having a problem with MFA using the Authenticator app. I previously connected an account, a screenshot of which I have attached. But when I try to login to the account using the same device nothing happens. It doesn’t automatically log me in, nor do I receive any push notifications with a code to enter. On the account website, the only option I am given is to enter a verification code from the app, but I am not receiving anything in the app.

What am I doing wrong, or is the connection that shows in the Authenticator app no longer good?

IMG_0001.png

Microsoft Security | Microsoft Authenticator
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  1. AI answer

    2026-05-08T11:31:00.47+00:00

    The connection in the Authenticator app is likely still valid, but the MFA prompt is either being sent to a different device or is not surfacing properly on the current device.

    Try the following steps in order:

    1. Check if the notification is going to another device
      • If Microsoft Authenticator is still installed on an older phone, the push notification may be sent there instead of the current device.
      • If that device is available, open Microsoft Authenticator on it and approve the sign-in.
      • Then remove the old device from the account’s security settings so future prompts go only to the current phone (see the “How do I make sure notifications don't go to an old device?” section referenced in the FAQ).
    2. Use another verification method if available
      • On the sign-in page, choose a different verification method (such as SMS or another configured factor) if that option is presented. This lets sign in and then review or reconfigure the Authenticator registration.
    3. Fix “Authentication did not complete” type issues on the current device If the app shows the account but no prompt or code appears, check:
      • App lock: Ensure Microsoft Authenticator is unlocked so the approval/entry box can appear.
      • Notifications: Make sure notifications for Microsoft Authenticator are enabled and not set to silent. Also check text messages in case a code was sent silently.
      • App version: Confirm the app is updated to the latest version.
      • Network: Ensure the phone has internet access; if needed, switch between Wi‑Fi and mobile data.
      • Device date/time: Verify the device’s date and time settings are correct.
    4. If still unable to receive or enter a code
      • For personal Microsoft accounts, use the account recovery options (including password reset) provided on the sign-in page.
      • For work/school or tenant-based accounts where no other admin can reset MFA, contact Microsoft support and request the Data Protection team to reset MFA for the account, as shown in the referenced Q&A cases.

    Once MFA is reset or re-registered, a new verification method (push or code) can be configured and used going forward.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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