Microsoft does away with passwords, employs new phone-based login system

You might no longer need to sign into your Microsoft account with a password anymore. Microsoft launched a new Authenticator app that does away with passwords and its place makes use of a new sign-in feature via your smartphone. Once you have it set up, the app, which is available on iOS, Android, and Windows Phone, makes use of your mobile device to confirm your identity. When you need to sign into your Microsoft account somewhere on desktop, you just need to type in your username and then you’ll receive a notification on your phone to approve the login. Simply tap approve and you’re signed in. Aside from preventing unauthorized login attempts, the app can also provide unique code that works as second authentication factor for OAuth logins.

Source: Engadget