The University is adding an extra layer of security for staff and students logging in to Office 365 accounts, by implementing a Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) solution. This is in response to the significant rise in reported account compromises due to phishing attacks against our institution.
Multi-factor authentication is scheduled to be rolled out to all staff and students by the end of 2019.
What is Multi-Factor Authentication?
Multi-Factor authentication provides an additional layer of security by adding an extra step to the login process, requiring you to confirm your identity.
If you use mobile banking you will most likely have come across Multi-Factor Authentication already – you may need to enter your login details and then use your device to generate a code to verify your identity and give you access to your account.
How does MFA work?
Once Multi-Factor Authentication is implemented you will be prompted to set it up the first time you attempt to log in to Office 365 out with the University network.
You can do this via a text message to your phone or a push notification/code through the Microsoft Authenticator mobile app.
This will enable you to use MFA when logging in to Office 365 from outside the University network.
You will then be prompted to validate your login with a code every seven days or whenever you join a new network.