Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is currently enabled for all students, faculty and staff accessing SUMail, Office365, MySlice, Blackboard and many other web-based applications. Beginning Tuesday, Jan. 18, users responding to a push notification from the Microsoft Authenticator app will be presented with a number verification that they will need to type into the app to complete the approval process. Those who currently use SMS (text messaging) or receive a phone call to authorize their accounts will not be affected by this change.
Screenshots of what the multi-factor authentication process will look like for users of the Microsoft Authenticator app on a computer (left) and mobile device.
MFA is an excellent method for enhancing user account security. With MFA enabled, a prospective thief would need access to both your password and a phone you’ve configured to steal your information. Number verification will enhance MFA’s ability to prevent the unauthorized use of NetIDs and passwords.
For more about the upcoming change, including detailed log-in instructions, visit the Using the Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication Application page on Answers. If you need to configure your MFA settings, you can find instructions for doing so on the First-Time Set-Up for Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication page on Answers.
If you have questions, please contact the ITS Help Desk by calling 315.443.2677 or by emailing help@syr.edu.
