Microsoft Warns 1 Billion Windows Users—Do Not Use Password – Forbes

🔍 Summary:

Microsoft has announced a significant shift in its security approach by moving over 1 billion users away from traditional passwords towards a more secure and user-friendly system called passkeys. Passkeys, which are linked to a user’s hardware devices and secured by biometrics like fingerprints or facial recognition, offer a more robust defense against phishing and hacking attempts because they cannot be leaked or stolen like passwords. This change is part of Microsoft’s broader effort to enhance security and user experience by making passkeys the default authentication method, eliminating the need for passwords and reducing the risk of phishing attacks.

The transition to passkeys is set to be implemented by the end of April for most Microsoft account users, simplifying the sign-in and sign-up processes on both web and mobile apps. Users will no longer need to create a password when setting up a new Microsoft account; instead, verifying an email with a one-time code will suffice. Once signed in, users can create their passkeys, which are touted as being three times faster than traditional passwords.

This move aligns with Microsoft’s goal to completely eliminate passwords, a vision supported by the increasing prevalence of AI-fueled attacks and the vulnerabilities associated with passwords and simple two-factor authentication (2FA). The FIDO Alliance, which has been advocating for the elimination of password dependency for over a decade, views Microsoft’s initiative as a critical milestone in enhancing global cybersecurity.

Despite these advancements, Microsoft has also made a controversial update to Windows 11, removing a popular command line that allowed users to bypass internet connectivity and Microsoft Account requirements during setup. Although the specific command (bypassnro.cmd) has been removed to improve security, a workaround still exists through modifying the Registry, albeit it’s more complex than before.

Overall, Microsoft’s push towards a passwordless future represents a significant shift in digital security, aiming to make user authentication faster, safer, and more intuitive across various platforms and devices.

📌 Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/zakdoffman/2025/03/30/microsoft-warns-1-billion-windows-users-do-not-use-password/