Change to Microsoft 365 2-factor authentication options

To improve security on Aberystwyth University IT accounts, the option to complete 2 factor authentication by receiving a phone call or text is being withdrawn.

Both SMS and voice calls can be intercepted by hackers but it is more difficult for a hacker to gain physical access to your phone or PC to generate a code without you knowing.

All users are asked to switch to using an authentication app on their smart phone (if they have one)

If you do not have a smart phone you can setup a desktop authenticator app:

• Linux
• Mac OS
• Windows

From April 2023 users who are not yet using an authenticator app will see the following prompt when logging in to their account:

• You will need to select Next and follow the instructions to set up an Authenticator App