FAQ: What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

Owned by Winter Morse (Deactivated)
Last updated: Oct 05, 2023 by Virginia Oelkers
3 min read

Will I have to do this every time when I am on campus?

You will have to verify it the first time you log into the web application when you are on campus. After that you will only need verification when you are off campus.

What do I need in order to authenticate it?

Authentication options currently include:

  • Mobile phone (text message)
  • Microsoft Authentication Mobile app* (Mobile app is the recommended means of authentication. It is also the fastest)

How can you answer your code if it is sent to office phone?

We recommend that you send it to your mobile phone or the app. Office phone will not work unless you are on campus, and when you are on campus you are not required to verify.

How do I make the initial updates for MFA?

If you haven’t been kicked out and prompted to verify your information enroll, log out and back in (when you are in the webapp).

What do you do if you have a different number when you are international?

Download the app. It will not require a text message.

Will I be required to MFA every time I log in when I am off campus?

As of right now, you will have to do it every time. In the future there may be an option to remember the device. This is why we recommend you download the Microsoft Authentication App since it is the quickest way of verifying.

Can I still mail forward?

With this security update, mail forwarding will be turned off for all of the following:

  • Students Employees
  • Staff
  • Faculty
  • Adjuncts

Will this stop phishing attempts?

Yes and No. This will stop any attempts where the attackers are using compromised Westminster emails to send phishing attacks because they are located off campus and if they have your password in order to log in, they will be required to provide the MFA code that is sent to you… If they are pretending to use a Westminster email, then we cannot stop them because it isn’t your actual email.

Where can I go to talk to someone about this?

The Computer Support Desk located directly to the right when entering the library, they can also be reached by phone 801.832.2023 or by email computersupport@westminsteru.edu

Why can’t I get my email on my phone anymore?

MFA isn’t supported on the native Gmail and Apple* mail apps. To ensure that you can access your mail from your phone we recommend downloading the Outlook application from your devices app store. This will also ensure that your mail app is supported. Currently Apple and Microsoft have stated that they are going to stop supporting older versions of their mail application, so if you want to ensure that your account does not become compromised we recommend that you use the app.

*Apple mail app is supported on iOS 12 or higher.

How do I change my MFA preference?

Myapps.microsoft.com -> top right corner select your name -> then select profile -> Select “additional security verification” on the right side -> Select the box that you prefer.

What the process looks like:

When you log into your email, you will get this message prompting you to take additional steps.

When you select “Next” you will be asked to complete the Additional Security Verification. In the first drop down box, select either Authentication Phone (mobile phone) or the Microsoft Authentication App. You must also select your country and then enter in your phone number in the blank box next to it. (PLEASE NOTE – THIS NUMBER WILL NOT BE STORED ANYWHERE ON WESTMINSTER SERVERS. IT WILL NOT SHOW UP IN ANY DIRECTORIES. IT IS USED ONLY TO VERIFY THAT YOU ARE THE ONE LOGGING INTO YOUR EMAIL ACCOUNT.)

Next you will be asked to help confirm your information is correct in case you forget your password. You will be required to confirm that your Authentication phone (mobile phone) is correct and then also set up an email address. –This email MUST be different than your Westminster email.