Authenticator migration doesn't work

Question

Hi, I got a new cell phone and did the migration using the account recovery feature in the app but some accounts don't display the 2FA code. For those showned, the code is invalid. Is there a way I can fix this issue?

Answer 1

Hi @Jonnathan Romero Huertas,

Thank you for reaching out to Microsoft Q&A forum!

Certainly! It’s essential to ensure a smooth transition when migrating your 2FA (two-factor authentication) codes to a new device. Here are some steps you can take to address this issue:

1. Backup and Restore Using Microsoft Authenticator:
   • If you’re using Microsoft Authenticator, follow these steps:
   • iPhone:
     1. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your old iPhone.
     2. Go to Settings (the gear icon).
     3. Ensure iCloud Backup is turned on to back up your accounts to iCloud.
     4. Install Microsoft Authenticator on your new iPhone from the App Store.
     5. Sign in to your Microsoft account on the new device.
     6. The app will prompt you to restore from the backup. Confirm this.
     7. After restoration, verify that all your accounts have been transferred correctly.
     8. Test the 2FA for a few services to ensure they work properly.
     9. Update account security settings on individual services if needed.
   • Android:
     1. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your old Android device.
     2. Go to Settings (the three dots menu).
     3. Ensure Cloud backup is turned on and linked to your Microsoft account.
     4. Install Microsoft Authenticator on your new Android device from the Google Play Store.
     5. Sign in to your Microsoft account on the new device.
     6. The app will prompt you to restore from the backup. Confirm this.
     7. Verify that all your accounts have been transferred correctly.
     8. Test the 2FA for a few services to ensure they work properly.
     9. Update account security settings on individual services if needed.
2. Alternative Methods:
   • If automatic backup and restore fail, consider these options:
   • Manual Migration:
     • On your old device, go to each account in the Microsoft Authenticator app, remove the 2FA, and set it up again on your new device by scanning the QR code.

Best regards,