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 an MFA 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! 

Setting up MFA, a video guide for users

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 messages 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. The University can not contact you through MFA, the MFA application is solely for verification purposes for your University account.

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 non-smart mobile phone, you can also authenticate via text or phone call.  There are also options if you do not own a phone. You also need access to a computer or tablet to make the setup as easy as possible. We have a guide for setting up MFA.

Does the University have access to my phone when setting up MFA?

No. The only information we can see is the mobile number you provided and the device name. We do not hold any other information stored on your phone.

I have already have another account on my MFA, can I register my University account?

The Microsoft Authenticator application allows users to have multiple accounts set up.

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, the MFA on your account may be locked due to a MFA request being denied. Please contact IT Services.

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 accidentally 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.

I am having further issues, how can I reach IT Services?

If you are having any further issues, you can contact us through one of the following methods:

• You can report an issue in person at the IT Services helpdesk on the ground floor of the Learning Hub
• You can raise an IT ticket in the IT self-service portal
• You can also call us on 01604 893333
• If you are an international student, you can email us on Int_ITSupport@northampton.ac.uk 

Our opening times are:

• Monday to Thursday: 8am to 5pm
• Friday: 8am to 9am and then 10am to 5pm