Microsoft Alert: Hackers Can Access Your Account—Even Without Your Password

Just when you think your business has cybersecurity under control, along comes a new threat that changes the game.

Microsoft has recently issued a warning about a rising cyberattack technique that could put your company at serious risk—even if you’re using strong passwords and multi-factor authentication.

Yes, you read that right. Hackers can now access your Microsoft accounts without ever needing your password.

This attack is called device code phishing, and it’s been gaining traction fast. Unlike traditional phishing scams, where the goal is to trick someone into handing over their credentials, this one is more sophisticated—and far sneakier.

Here’s how it works:

The attacker sends an email that looks completely legitimate—perhaps from HR or a known colleague—inviting you or your staff to join a Microsoft Teams meeting. The link takes you to a real Microsoft login page (not a fake one), which builds trust.

You’re then asked to enter a short “device code” included in the email. It seems harmless—just a step to confirm your login.

But here’s the catch: that code is actually giving the hacker access to your Microsoft account on their own device.

Because it uses Microsoft’s legitimate login flow, even MFA (multi-factor authentication) can be bypassed. It all appears completely above board.

Why this is a big problem for business owners:

  • Your staff won’t spot anything suspicious. They’re on a real Microsoft page.

  • Traditional security tools might not detect the threat.

  • Even changing your password might not lock the attacker out if they’ve captured your session.

Once inside, attackers can:

  • Access emails and sensitive business documents

  • Impersonate team members to trick others

  • Launch further attacks from within your own environment

What can you do to protect your business?

1. Raise awareness among your team.
Train your employees to think critically about unexpected login requests—especially when they involve entering a code from an email. If they didn’t request a code, it’s a red flag.

2. Verify the source.
If something doesn’t feel right, double-check via phone or your company messaging system before taking action.

3. Disable unnecessary login methods.
If your business doesn’t use device code authentication, your IT provider can disable it to remove the risk altogether.

4. Tighten access controls.
Implement conditional access policies—like only allowing logins from approved devices or locations.

5. Keep cybersecurity training ongoing.
Cybersecurity isn’t a one-time task. Regular updates and awareness sessions help keep your team alert and informed.

Need help securing your Microsoft environment?
Let’s make sure your business is protected from the latest threats.

Contact us by simply booking here on our calendar and we can catch up.

Past Blogs

Free Online Tools Could Be a Hidden Threat to Your Business

Have you ever needed to quickly turn a Word document into a PDF? Maybe you searched online, found a free tool, clicked a button, and – voilà – it was done. Easy, right?...

This Small Change to Teams Will Make Your Meetings Run Smoother

If you’ve ever been in a Teams meeting where you’ve had to say, “next slide, please,” more times than you’d like, you’re not alone. For businesses that rely on online...
Cyber Essentials vs ISO27001

Cyber Essentials vs. ISO 27001: What’s the Difference and Which Is Right for You?

Cybersecurity certifications come in many shapes and sizes, but when it comes to choosing the right framework for your business, the decision often boils down to Cyber...
Overconfident employees: Your hidden cyber security threat?

Overconfident employees: Your hidden cyber security threat?

Your team are smart, right? They’d never fall for a scam email or click a suspicious link. At least, that’s what they think. Here’s why overconfidence could spell...

DMARC & DMARCBIS

What They Are, Why They Matter, and What Business Owners Need to Know If you’re a business owner, chances are you rely on email every day—whether it’s communicating...
Could automation save you from spreadsheet headaches?

Could automation save you from spreadsheet headaches?

Spreadsheets slow us down and are too easy to mess up. So, what if I told you there’s a better way to handle data in your business?

Did you notice Incognito mode’s improved privacy?

Did you notice Incognito mode’s improved privacy?

If your team use Google Chrome’s Incognito mode, you probably assume your browsing is private. But until Microsoft spotted this big flaw, your info could be shared...
Copilot could soon auto-open in Microsoft Edge

Copilot could soon auto-open in Microsoft Edge

Is Edge your business’s browser of choice? Microsoft’s thinking of automatically opening Copilot when you use it. It could boost productivity, but there are privacy...
How concerned should you be about cyber attacks?

How concerned should you be about cyber attacks?

You’ve probably heard a lot of talk about cyber attacks but how worried should you really be? Well, very, because cyber criminals are getting smarter. We have good news...
How to create secure passwords

How to create secure passwords

Weak passwords are one of the biggest security risks to your business. Why? Because cyber criminals are getting smarter than ever before. If they manage to crack just...