What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

MFA helps protect you and your device from cyber-attacks. When you use MFA, you are providing two types of identification; your password when you log in and a Multi-Factor Authentication method, like a notification to your phone. This makes logging into apps and services like the Student Hub or Office 365 extra safe.

A cyber attacker might gain access to a password, but they won't have your phone too! 

What MFA options are there?

Microsoft Authenticator App - A notification is sent to the Microsoft Authenticator app on your smart phone. You must approve the login using the app

Text Message - A text message is sent to your mobile phone. You must enter the code in the text message to login

Voice Call - Microsoft call the phone number you previously supplied. You must respond to the voice prompts to approve login.

We recommend that you set up the app as the primary method, with text message as a backup method.

Why does the University use MFA?

The University holds a large quantity of personal data, both staff and students, as well as storing confidential research data with commercial value, which an industry standard technology such as MFA helps protect. Advantage Services have created a video that explains how and why MFA is an easy and effective method of security.

Can I opt out of setting up MFA?

No. All UON students and staff are required to have their accounts protected when accessing MFA enabled services.

What do I need to set up MFA?

Ideally you need to have a smart phone as using the app on this is the easiest option, but if you have an ordinary mobile phone, you can also authenticate via text or phone call. You also need access to a computer or tablet to make the set up as easy as possible.

Will I need to verify my identity with MFA every time I sign in?

No. MFA is required every seven days, unless you are accessing services from an unusual location or device. MFA is not designed to be intrusive or demanding, and will trust the device you typically use and your usual location - if you use a different device or in a different location you will be prompted to authenticate at the time of logging in.

What do I do if I receive an error message every time I try to use MFA?

If you receive an error message every time you try to authenticate with MFA, please contact IT Services. The MFA on your account may be locked due to a MFA request being denied, so you will need to contact IT Services to get this unlocked.

What happens if I receive an unknown MFA request on my phone?

If you receive an MFA request on your phone, and it doesn't match a request from your laptop / tablet / PC, then you should select the option  'No, it's not me'. You will then see the option to report malicious activity. You should select 'report' as this will block that account and not yours.

What should I do if I accidently dismiss or reject the authentication?

You will see a 'request denied' pop-up but you will have another chance to authenticate by clicking on one of the options:

If you do lose access to any apps on your device, you should contact IT Services and we will be able to help you.

What if I change my mobile phone?

If you change mobile phone, then you will need to change the setup of your MFA. You can follow the steps in our guide or contact IT Services if you need any help.

What if I lose my mobile phone?

If you lose your mobile phone, then you can set up Authenticator on a second device. If you have any problems, please contact IT Services.

How do I register for MFA?

We have two guides available to help you register for MFA:

• Apple iPhone
• Android.

What do I do if I don't have a mobile phone, or a smart phone?

We have a guide available for alternative authentication if you don't have a mobile phone, or you have a mobile phone but it is not a smart phone.

I need help or want to know more

We have more guides available or IT Services will be happy to help you. You can visit IT Services on the SID on the ground floor of the Learning Hub: 

• Mondays to Thursdays 8.30am to 5pm 
• Fridays 10am to 5pm. 

You can also call the IT helpdesk on 01604 893333: 

• Mondays to Thursdays 8am to 5pm 

• Fridays 8am to 9am, and then 10am to 5pm. 

You can also raise a ticket in the IT Portal at any time. 

If you are a student based outside the UK, you can contact IT Services by emailing Int_ITSupport@northampton.ac.uk