Phone Call Verification

Question

Dear Microsoft,

Recently I received a very odd email saying that there would no longer be phone call verification options.

Since the ONLY useful verification options you currently have ARE with a phone call, I have to assume this is scam message.

I don't consider SMS messaging to be a nice verification option, although I do use it.

There still are people with NO cell phones, and in some cases cell phone service is unreliable, and the phone call saves your bacon.

I have used ALL three services over time, and have found i NEEDED all three options for various verification purposes.

A well engineered system does NOT eliminate the one SECURE means of communication.  Landlines are the MOST secure option for verification, with 2nd email and then SMS and authenticator coming last.

Answer 1

Authenticator is very safe; way above SMS because SIMs can be spoofed quite easily.

The message seems to be legitimate. I've seen reports that others have received them as well. I think Microsoft is ditching the voice verification, but I haven't been able to confirm that yet.