This service is available for faculty, staff, and students.
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a security method for your account that helps verify that you are actually the person who is logging into your account.
- You log into your account with your St. Thomas username & password.
- You will then get the notification via the method you chose during set up (mobile app or text) to verify it is you logging into your account.
Your Multi-Factor Verification Options
The following are a list of methods that can be used for this second type of verification:
- Text Message
- Mobile App Notification - ITS Recommended Option
- Verification Code (via the Mobile App)
Verification method options for Multi-Factor Authentication
| Verification method |
Description |
| Mobile app notification |
A verification request is sent to your mobile phone asking your complete the verification by selecting Verify/Approve from the mobile app. This occurs if app notification is the primary verification method. If you receive this notification when you are not signing in, you can report it as fraud.
(Requires download of Microsoft Auntenticator App on your phone) |
| Verification code with mobile app |
The mobile app on your device generates a verification code. This occurs if you selected a verification code as your primary verification method.(Requires download of Microsoft Auntenticator App on your phone) |
| Text message |
A text message is sent to a your mobile phone with a 6-digit code. Enter this code to complete the verification process. |
| Yubikey Dongle |
The Yubikey option is a USB device that you sync with your computer and the Yubikey app to allow you to MFA without a cell phone or other mobile device. More on Yubikey here |
Our Recommendation:
ITS recommends downloading the Microsoft Authenticator app and choosing the Mobile App methods for the following reasons:
- While it takes a bit longer to setup, it is the fastest verification option when logging in.
- The app allows you to just tap your screen to approve the login request on your phone.
- The mobile app is also available even when you don't have cellular coverage by using the code generated within the app every 30 seconds.
Getting Started
- Members of the community complete the first-time MFA setup when you activate your new St. Thomas account.
- If you lose, replace, or get a new phone, you will need to re-establish your MFA connection. Learn how to do this in our MFA Frequently Asked Questions article.
Request Service
Our request service form will allow you to request assistance with MFA on your account or report a problem