authenticator locked

Try the following steps in order:

1. Make sure the app itself is not locked by App Lock:
   • Open Microsoft Authenticator.
   • When prompted, enter the device PIN or use biometric (fingerprint/Face ID) to unlock.
   • If the app still appears locked or the entry box does not show, fully close Authenticator and reopen it, then try again.
2. Check device security settings:
   • Ensure the device requires a PIN or biometric to unlock.
   • If using face or fingerprint, re‑enable it in the device settings, restart the device, then unlock the device with that method and try Authenticator again.
3. If the app remains stuck in a locked state on a new phone (for example after migrating from an old device):
   • Uninstall the Microsoft Authenticator app from the device.
   • Reinstall it from the official store.
   • Set it up again with the accounts that use it (this may require access to backup codes or another MFA method, depending on how the accounts are configured).

If none of these steps work and access to important work or school resources is blocked, contact the organization’s IT admin or Microsoft Support so they can help reset MFA registration for the account.

References:

• Microsoft Authenticator FAQs
• Troubleshoot problems with Microsoft Authenticator
• Authentication did not complete
• Cannot unlock the Autheticator - Microsoft Q&A