Title: "Urgent: Microsoft's 75M-User Feature Update in 24 Hours – Act Now" (12 words, retains urgency, scale, and call to action.)

Urgent Warning for 75 Million Microsoft Authenticator Users: Save Passwords Now
(Suggested Visual: App screenshot showing password backup options)

Microsoft has issued an urgent alert to 75 million Microsoft Authenticator users: back up your saved passwords and payment details immediately as major app changes take effect starting June 1. The company is discontinuing its password management features in Authenticator, shifting them exclusively to its Edge browser. Users risk losing access to stored logins and payment data if they don’t act swiftly.

Key Dates and Immediate Risks

June 1, 2025: Authenticator will stop saving new passwords.
July 1, 2025: Autofill functionality will be disabled.
August 2025: All saved passwords in Authenticator become inaccessible.

(Suggested Visual: Timeline infographic with key deadlines)

Payment details (credit cards, banking info) stored in Authenticator will also be permanently deleted after the transition, leaving users unprotected unless they migrate data to Edge.

Why This Change?

Microsoft claims this move streamlines password management by centralizing security features in Edge, which offers built-in tools like:

Password Monitor for breached credentials
Anti-phishing (Defender SmartScreen)
Tracking prevention and InPrivate browsing

Authenticator will shift focus to two-factor authentication (2FA) only, dropping its password management role. Users are directed to transition to Edge for autofill or export their data to third-party apps like 1Password or Dashlane.

User Backlash and Complaints

The decision has sparked frustration online. Critics accuse Microsoft of forcing Edge adoption:

“Who needs choices when it comes to passwords?” – X user
“Trying to login to Authenticator… endless loop?” – User struggling with app glitches

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How to Protect Your Data

Export Passwords: Go to Authenticator settings → “Passwords” → “Export.”
Sync to Microsoft Account: Ensure credentials are backed up via Microsoft account settings.
Switch to Edge: Enable autofill in Edge settings under “Profiles” → “Passwords.”

(Suggested Visual: Step-by-step screenshot guide for exporting)

Microsoft assures that data synced to user accounts will remain accessible in Edge. However, the abrupt shift—especially for non-Edge users—has left many scrambling. As passwords phase out industry-wide for biometrics and passkeys, this move highlights growing pains in digital security evolution.

Act now to avoid losing critical login details.

(Suggested Visual: Microsoft Edge logo with password migration branding)

For official guidance, visit Microsoft’s support page.

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