How to Fix Unwanted Advertisements in Microsoft Sign-In OTP Messages
Question details
The user is receiving text messages containing one-time passwords (OTP) for Microsoft account sign-in that appear to come from an unwanted advertising service instead of the official Microsoft authentication service.
- Product
- Microsoft Account Authentication
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to sign in to a Microsoft account from a laptop on a home network using SMS text messages for multi-factor authentication.
- Observed behavior
- The SMS containing the Microsoft authentication OTP is bundled with or originates from an unwanted advertising service, raising security concerns regarding the SMS delivery route.
Do not share the one-time code with anyone, and never click on any suspicious links included in the unexpected text message to protect your account from phishing attempts.
Secure Your Account and Switch to an Authenticator App
Since SMS delivery routes can be compromised or intercepted by advertising gateways, switching to a dedicated authenticator app is the most effective way to secure your Microsoft account.
Relying on SMS for multi-factor authentication (MFA) leaves you vulnerable to carrier routing issues, SIM swapping, and unauthorized message interception. Microsoft recommends using the Microsoft Authenticator app for a more secure and reliable sign-in experience.
Log in to your Microsoft account through a trusted device and navigate to the 'Security' tab. Click on 'Sign-in activity' to ensure there are no unauthorized access attempts from unknown locations.
While still in the Security dashboard, select 'Change password'. Enter your current password and create a strong, new password to immediately lock out any potential unauthorized users.
Go to 'Advanced security options'. Review your listed authentication methods and remove any phone numbers or alternate emails that you do not recognize or no longer use.
In the 'Advanced security options' menu, click 'Add a new way to sign in or verify'. Choose 'Use an app' and follow the on-screen instructions to link the Microsoft Authenticator app to your account.
Report the Compromised SMS Route
If you must continue using SMS verification, you need to report the hijacked delivery route to both Microsoft and your mobile carrier to investigate the breach.
Looking for a Secure, Hassle-Free Office Suite?
While you are securing your Microsoft account, you don't have to put your work on hold. WPS Office is a lightweight, secure, and completely free alternative that lets you create, edit, and manage your documents without complex sign-in loops or SMS verification issues.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installation package for your operating system.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded file and follow the quick on-screen instructions to install the suite.
- 3. Open Your Office Files: Launch WPS Office and instantly open your existing Microsoft Office documents to continue working securely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Microsoft authentication code contain an ad?
This usually happens when the SMS delivery route is compromised by a third-party gateway, a malicious app on your phone is intercepting and altering the message, or your carrier's network routing has an issue. It is a security concern and should not be ignored.
Is it safe to use the one-time password if it arrives with an advertisement?
No. If your OTP is bundled with unexpected advertisements, you should treat the communication channel as compromised. Do not enter the code, do not click on any links in the text, and change your password immediately.
How do I stop using SMS for Microsoft sign-in?
Log into your Microsoft account, go to the Security dashboard, and select 'Advanced security options'. From there, you can remove your phone number as a sign-in method and click 'Add a new way to sign in or verify' to set up an authenticator app instead.
