'%3e%3cpath%20d='M8%200C12.4183%200%2016%203.58172%2016%208C16%2012.4183%2012.4183%2016%208%2016C3.58172%2016%200%2012.4183%200%208C0%203.58172%203.58172%200%208%200ZM11.6162%204.38379C11.2257%203.99337%2010.5927%203.99338%2010.2021%204.38379L8%206.58594L5.79785%204.38379C5.40732%203.99334%204.77429%203.99329%204.38379%204.38379C3.99331%204.77429%203.99335%205.40733%204.38379%205.79785L6.58594%208L4.38379%2010.2021C3.99348%2010.5927%203.99341%2011.2257%204.38379%2011.6162C4.77426%2012.0066%205.40734%2012.0065%205.79785%2011.6162L8%209.41406L10.2021%2011.6162C10.5927%2012.0066%2011.2257%2012.0067%2011.6162%2011.6162C12.0067%2011.2257%2012.0066%2010.5927%2011.6162%2010.2021L9.41406%208L11.6162%205.79785C12.0066%205.40735%2012.0066%204.77429%2011.6162%204.38379Z'%20fill='%23080E17'%20fill-opacity='0.46'/%3e%3c/g%3e%3cdefs%3e%3cclipPath%20id='clip0_3761_713'%3e%3crect%20width='16'%20height='16'%20fill='white'/%3e%3c/clipPath%3e%3c/defs%3e%3c/svg%3e)
Fix Microsoft Authenticator Code Prompt Missing When Changing Password
Question details
The user is unable to complete a password change because the required two-digit number matching prompt does not appear in their authentication app.
- Product
- Microsoft Authenticator
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Changing a Microsoft account password that requires multi-factor authentication (MFA) approval.
- Observed behavior
- The number matching feature fails to display the two-digit code prompt on the user's mobile device, preventing them from verifying their identity.
Ensure your mobile device has a stable internet connection and that it is not currently set to 'Do Not Disturb' or 'Airplane' mode, as these settings can block incoming authentication requests.
Update the App and Enable Device Notifications
Outdated app versions or blocked system notifications are the most common reasons authentication prompts fail to appear on your screen.
Microsoft frequently updates the Authenticator app to improve the security and functionality of the number matching feature. Running an older version may cause compatibility issues with the server.
Open the Apple App Store or Google Play Store on your mobile device, search for 'Microsoft Authenticator', and tap the 'Update' button if a newer version is available.
Navigate to your smartphone's system Settings. Locate 'Apps' or 'Notifications', find the Authenticator app, and ensure that all notification permissions (including lock screen alerts and banners) are toggled on.
In your device's battery or power management settings, ensure that Microsoft Authenticator is allowed to run in the background without restriction.
Verify Your Account Registration in the App
The code prompt will not display if your Microsoft Entra ID (work or school account) is not properly linked or has become desynchronized.
Contact Your Microsoft 365 Administrator
If number matching policies are misconfigured at the organization level, your administrator must resolve the issue via the admin center.
Avoid Login Frustrations with WPS Office
If complex Microsoft 365 authentication loops and missing MFA codes are slowing down your productivity, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a robust, offline-capable working environment that lets you edit documents seamlessly without being hindered by constant cloud sign-in requirements.
- 1. Download the Setup File: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the 'Free Download' button to get the latest installer.
- 2. Install the Suite: Run the downloaded file and follow the simple on-screen prompts to install the software on your computer.
- 3. Start Creating Instantly: Launch WPS Office and immediately begin working on your files without worrying about unexpected login barriers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is number matching in Microsoft Authenticator?
Number matching is a security upgrade that requires you to manually type a two-digit number shown on your computer's sign-in screen into the Microsoft Authenticator app. This prevents users from accidentally approving fraudulent login attempts.
Why is Microsoft Authenticator not showing any notifications on my phone?
Notifications might be blocked by your phone's operating system settings, or the app might be restricted from using background data. Ensure that you have granted full notification permissions and disabled battery-saver restrictions for the app in your device settings.
Can I change my password without using Microsoft Authenticator?
Yes, provided your organization allows alternative backup authentication methods. On the password reset or login screen, click 'Sign in another way' to see if you can receive a verification code via SMS text message or an alternate email address.
Does reinstalling the Microsoft Authenticator app fix the missing prompt?
Reinstalling can fix corrupted app data, but it will also remove your linked accounts. Before reinstalling, ensure you have a backup of your account credentials or an alternative MFA method available, as you will need to re-register your work or school account afterward.
