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Set up Microsoft Authenticator to maintain access to University services

Action required: Microsoft is retiring text message (SMS) and phone call verification for Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) from 1 February 2027. 

5 November 2026

If you currently use either of these methods and haven't set up Microsoft Authenticator, you must set up Authenticator to maintain access to University services. 

From 30 November 2026, students who have not set up Microsoft Authenticator will have only three opportunities to snooze the set-up prompts when signing in. After these have been used, access to some University services will be withdrawn until Microsoft Authenticator has been set up. 

Please do not ignore or repeatedly snooze these notifications. Act now to avoid disruption to your access to University services. 

What do I need to do? 

If you currently use SMS or phone call verification as your primary MFA method and have not set up Microsoft Authenticator: 

You need to set up Microsoft Authenticator as soon as possible. You can do this when prompted during sign-in or follow the guidance below to make the change now: 

How to change your authentication method | IT Service (NUIT) | Newcastle University 

Setting up the app now means you will be ready before the snooze limit takes effect on 30 November and before SMS and phone call verification are withdrawn on 1 February 2027. 

 

If you already use Microsoft Authenticator for MFA: 

You do not need to do anything. 

 

Why is this change necessary? 

Microsoft is making this change as cyber threats continue to evolve, with criminals increasingly targeting passwords and less secure verification methods such as SMS and phone calls. 

Moving to Microsoft Authenticator will provide stronger protection for University accounts and help reduce the risk of unauthorised access. 

It also offers several benefits: 

  • Faster sign-in to University accounts and services. 
  • Better protection against account compromise. 
  • Fewer verification prompts over time. 
  • A simpler sign-in experience across devices. 
  • The ability to reset a forgotten password using the app. 

 

Need help setting up Microsoft Authenticator? 

If your mobile phone is not compatible with Microsoft Authenticator, please complete our support request form in NUService.  

You can also contact the IT Service Desk if you have followed the guidance but still require assistance setting up the Microsoft Authenticator app.