How to Stop OneDrive Verification Codes for Shared Documents
Question details
Users want to disable the repeated one-time PIN verification required when recipients open a shared OneDrive document, while still ensuring the right people have access.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Sharing a document with management users or external recipients via a link.
- Observed behavior
- Recipients are prompted to enter a verification code (one-time PIN) every time they attempt to open the shared document.
Ensure you have the necessary permissions to manage sharing settings for the document and verify the Microsoft account status of your recipients.
Modify Link Settings to 'Anyone with the link'
Changing the sharing link type to 'Anyone with the link' typically bypasses the need for recipients to verify their identity with a one-time PIN.
When you use the 'Specific people' sharing option, OneDrive strictly verifies identity. If the recipient does not have a Microsoft account linked to the email provided, they will be forced to use a one-time PIN every time they open the file. Switching to 'Anyone with the link' removes this hurdle.
Select the file in OneDrive, right-click, and select the 'Share' icon.
Click on the current link settings description (for example, 'People you specify can view').
Under the Link settings menu, select 'Anyone with the link'.
Click 'Apply', then copy the new link to share with your recipients. Test it in a private browser window to confirm it works without a PIN.
Require Microsoft Account Sign-In
If security is a priority, ensure recipients use connected Microsoft accounts to eliminate repeated PIN prompts.
Experience Seamless File Sharing with WPS Office
Tired of dealing with complex sharing permissions and repeated verification codes? WPS Office provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative with built-in cloud sharing that makes collaboration effortless without compromising on compatibility.
- 1. Open your file in WPS Office: Launch WPS Office and open the document you wish to share.
- 2. Click Share: Click the 'Share' button in the top right corner of the workspace.
- 3. Customize and create link: Set your desired permissions (view or edit) and copy the sharing link to send to collaborators.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does OneDrive ask for a verification code every time?
When you share a document using the 'Specific people' option and the recipient doesn't have a Microsoft account (or isn't signed in), OneDrive sends a one-time PIN to their email to verify their identity before granting access.
Can I remove the verification code without changing the link type?
No, the verification code is a built-in security feature tied to the 'Specific people' sharing setting for external users. To bypass it, you must either use an 'Anyone with the link' setting or ensure the recipient signs in with a linked Microsoft account.
Are 'Anyone with the link' shares secure?
Links set to 'Anyone' are inherently less secure because they can be forwarded to others who can also access the file. You can increase security by setting an expiration date or adding a password to the link.
