Microsoft Authenticator - Passkeys

 
Passkeys Now Enabled for All Alliant Accounts
 
Dear Alliant Community,

We’re excited to announce that passkeys are now enabled for all Alliant accounts through the Microsoft Authenticator app.
Passkeys let you sign in using your device’s Face ID, Touch ID, or screen PIN — replacing traditional passwords with a more secure and convenient authentication method. We encourage everyone who can to enable passkeys for their account, both for the ease of use and the significant improvement in security they provide.
 
Why This Matters
  • Enhanced Security: Passkeys are phishing‑resistant. Unlike passwords, they can’t be stolen or reused by attackers.
  • Simpler Sign‑In: Use your phone’s built‑in biometrics instead of typing codes or remembering passwords.
  • Faster Access: Quickly verify your identity using your trusted device.
 
What You’ll Need
  • A modern phone (2015 or newer) that supports biometric login (Face ID, Touch ID, or fingerprint).
  • iPhone with iOS 17+ or Android 14+.
  • The latest Microsoft Authenticator with your Alliant (Microsoft Entra ID) account added.
Using a legacy device? Other authentication methods (like verification codes, text messages, or phone calls) will remain available. Manage your sign‑in options at mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info.
 
How to Enable a Passkey
On iPhone (iOS 17+)
  1. Update Microsoft Authenticator in the App Store.
  2. Ensure Face ID or Touch ID is set up.
  3. Open Authenticator → tap your Alliant work/school account → select Add a passkey.
  4. If prompted, visit aka.ms/mysecurityinfo → Add sign‑in method → Passkey → follow the steps.

On Android (Android 14+)
  1. Update Microsoft Authenticator in Google Play.
  2. Make sure a screen lock or biometric is enabled.
  3. Open Authenticator → tap your Alliant work/school account → select Add a passkey.
  4. If redirected, go to aka.ms/mysecurityinfo and follow the same steps.

Manage Your Sign‑In Methods

After Setup
When signing in to your Alliant account, choose “Sign in with a passkey” and approve with your device’s biometric or PIN. This works across Microsoft apps, browsers, and services connected to your Alliant account.
 
Need Help?
If you don’t see the passkey option or run into issues, first ensure your phone and Authenticator app are fully updated. For assistance, contact the IT Service Desk at [email protected].
Thank you for helping strengthen Alliant’s IT security. We strongly encourage everyone who can to enable passkeys — it’s the easiest and most secure way to sign in to your Alliant services.
​
— Alliant IT Security Team

Mobile Device Setup Information

  • Users should already have their Alliant account enrolled for multi-factor authentication to be able to add a Passkey authentication method. For assistance, contact the IT Service Desk at [email protected]. 
  • Passkeys require Android 14 or iOS 17 and up.
  • Microsoft Authenticator App on Android should be 6.2404.2444 or newer.
  • Microsoft Authenticator App on iOS should be version 6.8.7 or newer.
  • The “Usage data” (under Settings) should be enabled from the Microsoft Authenticator App.
  • For Android, the Authenticator app should be enabled as an additional provider under Settings -> Passwords and accounts. (user will be guided during enrollment)
  • The Microsoft Authenticator App is paired to a specific mobile device. For this reason, if you upgrade or change to a different device the Microsoft Authenticator App and Passkey will no longer work. 
    • Note: After migration to a new mobile device the Microsoft Authenticator App will physically move and give the false appearance that it will function. You will need to contact the IT Service Desk at [email protected] to have these authentication methods cleared from your Alliant account and you will then need to register with your new device.