We have just been made aware of a change that will be implemented to our Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) service. In the coming weeks, people that are using SMS text and voice for MFA verification will be prompted to set up the Microsoft Authenticator app, a stronger form of MFA than SMS and voice methods. Other benefits of using Microsoft Authenticator include passwordless sign in and not requiring cellular service in order to receive verification codes (which is great if you’re traveling using a different SIM card or work in a building with little to no cell signal).


If you are currently using SMS or voice as your MFA method, you will need to configure Microsoft Authenticator on your smartphone. Once the rollover begins, you will sign in as usual. Once signed in, you will see a prompt to set up the Microsoft Authenticator app. You can choose to skip this step up to three times before you’re required to install it.




Setup Instructions


TABLE OF CONTENTS

Step 1: Getting to the setup page

You have two options to get to the set up page

  • Do nothing
    • You can wait until you see the following page at which point you'll be required to set up Microsoft Authenticator. Once you see this screen, click Next.

  • Go to https://mysignins.microsoft.com/security-infoto configure Microsoft Authenticator now
    • Once signed in, select the Add sign-in method option on the Security info page
    • From the drop down menu, select Authenticator app
    • Click on the blue Add button


Step 2: Installing the app

  • To set up Microsoft Authenticator, click Next on your screen and you will be guided through the setup process. You’ll first be asked to get the app.

Apple App Store for iOS

Google Play Store for Android

  • On your phone
    • Download and install the Microsoft Authenticator app onto your phone. You can use the QR codes/links above to ensure you’re downloading the correct app or search for and select the Microsoft Authenticator app from your phone's app store
  • On your computer
    • Once the app is installed on your phone, you can continue with the on screen instructions by clicking on the blue Next button.


Step 3: Opening the app

  • Next, you will see the following prompt on your computer


  • On your phone
    • Open the newly installed Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone.
    • If prompted, allow notifications.
  • On your computer
    • Click on the blue Next button


Step 4: Adding your Collingwood account to Microsoft Authenticator

  • Next, you will see the following prompt on your computer


  • On your phone
    • From the Microsoft Authenticator app, add a new account by selecting the + button
    • Select Work or school account
    • Select the option to Scan a QR code
    • Use your phone to scan the QR code you see on your computer
    • (do not scan the QR code in these instructions for this step)
Do not scan the QR code in these instructions for this step
  • On your computer
    • Click on the blue Next button to test out MFA


Step 5: Testing

  • You will see the following prompt on your computer with a number


  • On your phone
    • Key in the number that you see in the prompt and select Yes.
    • Approve the sign in by using your phone’s authentication (fingerprint, Face ID, PIN, etc)
  • On your computer
    • You’ll be shown a message stating that the Notification was approved. Click the Next button.
    • Click Done to finish setup.


Don’t want to wait? You can manage your MFA methods by going to https://mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info. From this page, you can remove sign-in methods you no longer use and add new ones.