Multi-Factor Authentication FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Multi-Factor Authentication

 

Multi-Factor Authentication (also known as two factor authentication or two step verification) is a security enhancement that requires you to provide at least one secondary authentication method, in addition to your password, to verify your identity when signing in.
Yes, this is a requirement for everyone in the University of Arkansas System – Division of Agriculture for enhanced account and data security.
MFA is required for enhanced security for University of Arkansas System – Division of Agriculture online resources. UADA accounts can be compromised by phishing scams, automated bots, targeted attacks, etc. Verifying your account with a secondary authentication method is more secure especially for services that grant access to Personally Identifiable Information (PII).
  • Microsoft Authenticator app (preferred as the primary method): This option pushes a notification to the authenticator app on your smartphone or tablet. This application also can generate a six-digit code for alternate verification.
  • SMS Text message code: This method sends a text message containing a verification code.
  • Secondary email address: This method sends a verification code to your secondary email account.
Follow the instructions at this site: UADA Multi-Factor Authentication
While using the Microsoft Authenticator app on your smartphone is the preferred method to authenticate your logins, there are other ways to authenticate. Two secondary authentication methods will always be required and can be any combination of the following: Microsoft Authenticator app, SMS text message, or a secondary email account. However, if none of these solutions work for your situation, please contact AGRI Tech.

Yes, if you have an internet or data connection internationally, the Microsoft Authenticator app works the same within and outside of the United States.

Note: Be sure to install the app prior to travel, if you will be using this method.

On your device go to Settings, scroll down and tap on About phone or About tablet. Some information will appear. If one of the lines of information says Android with a version number, you have an Android device. If you do not see About phone or About tablet, look for an iCloud option. If you see this option (you don’t have to select it), that means you have an iOS device.
  • Yes, your normal text messaging charges would apply.
  • Rates vary by service provider while outside of the U.S.

You may check the box “Don’t ask again for 7 days” to remember this computer and browser for 7 days before you will be asked to reauthorize. If you are authenticating on a public or shared computer, do NOT check the box.

MFA Approve

You can sign in to https://aka.ms/mfasetup to update your authentication methods. If you cannot update your MFA methods due to a lost phone, contact AGRI Tech for assistance. You will be required to verify your identity either in person or through a video call.

You can use the verification code created by the Microsoft Authenticator app to authenticate when your phone does not have internet or data access. Click on “Sign in another way” and then on “Use a verification code from my mobile app”. Open the authenticator app on your smartphone and enter the code on your computer.

MFA CodeMFA Code

In some cases, AGRI Tech can provide a One-Time Bypass option which allows you to log in one time without a secondary authentication method. Call AGRI Tech if you need assistance.  

This would only happen if someone else was trying to log into your account, and they already knew your password. Remember: text messages, emails, and the mobile app notifications are only sent after the username and password are verified. If this happens, Multi-Factor Authentication has just saved your account from unauthorized access! To temporarily block authentication attempts for your account, press “Deny” and “Report” in the mobile app. 

Contact AGRI Tech immediately if fraud is suspected or to have your account unlocked after an unauthorized sign-on attempt. 

Yes, go to https://aka.ms/mfasetup to update your MFA methods.   
No, the University of Arkansas System states: “Use of a personal mobile phone device for MFA transactions is considered insignificant and not justification for a university sponsored cellphone or stipend.” 
If your questions are not answered in this FAQ, please contact AGRI Tech.