CofC Moves to More Secure Multifactor Authentication Method
The College will be retiring the SMS option for multifactor authentication, and users will be required to use the Microsoft Authenticator app.
In compliance with industry security recommendations, the College of Charleston will retire the SMS (text) option for multifactor authentication (MFA) on Sept. 1, 2024. The CofC community must transition to the Microsoft Authenticator app for enhanced security.
Reasons for the change include:
- Greater Account Security: SMS authentication poses high vulnerability to compromise, while the Microsoft Authenticator app offers superior security features and context-aware login.
- Increased Functionality: The app enables backup and restoration of account credentials, works offline and is suitable for international use.
- Campus Security Roadmap: The app is integral to upcoming security enhancements, including password-less sign-in.
Beginning April 15, 2024, users without the Microsoft Authenticator app will receive prompts to set it up at login. While the setup can be skipped until Sept. 1, the prompt will continue until the change is made. Beginning Sept. 1, users relying solely on SMS for authentication will be unable to log in until they change to the Microsoft Authenticator app.
Here are the recommended actions at this time:
- Switch MFA method to Microsoft Authenticator.
- Install and set up the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device.
More information about the transition – including what to do if you do not have a smart phone – is available on the FAQ page. For other questions, please reach out to the IT Service Desk.
