Forum Discussion
Number Challenge for MFA - Accessibility Issues
Hello
With the shift away from passwords, I recently started using the Microsoft Authenticator app for my Microsoft-related logins (Windows, Office, Teams, etc) but immediately ran into accessibility problems. I am a visually impaired user and use a screen reader.
When signing in, if I am prompted with the number challenge verification I cannot complete it. There are many accessibility problems with this challenge.
1. The number only displays briefly in an animation that cannot be paused or stopped
2. The number animation cannot be accessed via screen readers (at least NVDA, JAWS, and Narrator, those are the ones I've tried)
3. The challenge only gives the user 30 seconds to complete with no way to extend, configure, or disable that timer.
It's important that all users have access to this security functionality, so I hope to see the accessibility improved.
I'm pleased to report that Microsoft has improved the accessibility of their MFA process. The verification numbers are now accessible to screen readers. I've worked with JAWS, NVDA, Narrator, and VoiceOver and they all are able to read the numbers.
c-mart I know it has been a while since you posted this. I helping a friend out who has the same issue. Just wonder what solution, if any, you settled on. And any advice you can give on Microsoft MFA for the visually impaired would be appreciated.
Tsfountain Did you find any solution. I just got a MFA enforcement letter from Microsoft and I have a blind person that works for our organization.
I'm pleased to report that Microsoft has improved the accessibility of their MFA process. The verification numbers are now accessible to screen readers. I've worked with JAWS, NVDA, Narrator, and VoiceOver and they all are able to read the numbers.
