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Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is how we keep our computer accounts secure. 

Multi-Factor Authentication is an extra layer of security on your La Trobe account to verify your identity. It ensures that only you can access your account, even if someone else obtains your password.

Using a strong password in conjunction with Multi-Factor Authentication prevents malicious access to your account and personal information.

The use of Multi-Factor Authentication is subject to the computer facilities statute, which outlines the terms for accessing and using computing resources.

If you've recently changed phones or are having trouble with Multi-Factor Authentication, please contact us so we can help restore your access.

Setting Up Microsoft Authenticator

Follow the steps outlined below for setting up the Microsoft Authenticator. We also have a step by step guide [PDF 1.2 MB] available to download.

  1. Download the Microsoft Authenticator App on your smartphone via the Apple App store or Google Play store.
    • Please double check that the application you are installing is the correct Microsoft Authenticator. The developer of the application should be listed as Microsoft Corporation. Be aware other authenticator applications will be available on the app store. The Microsoft Authenticator will not ask you for payment.
    • Ensure that you enable push notifications for the Microsoft Authenticator App.
  2. Use a secondary laptop device, open a MFA enabled application (e.g. Office 365).
  3. Log into the application with your username and password.
  4. You will be prompted with a ‘More Information Required’ screen.
  5. Select ‘Next’ on your laptop.
  6. Select ‘Next’ again.
  7. Select ‘Next’ and leave the browser window open while you complete the next steps on your smartphone.
  8. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your smartphone.
  9. Select the plus sign to add your account.
  10. Choose ‘Work or school account’.
  11. Select ‘Scan QR code’.
  12. Scan the QR code that is displayed on your computer.
  13. Once the account has been added return to your computer and select 'Next'.
  14. This will prompt a test screen. You will have a two digit number on your screen.
  15. Enter the number on your smartphone device and select 'Yes'.
  16. Back on your computer screen you should now have a successful configuration.
  17. Select ‘Next’. A success page will be displayed.
  18. Select ‘Done’.

Watch video

After setting up MFA

  • Go to the MFA setup page to add an additional device as a backup authentication method, in case your primary device becomes unavailable. This secondary device can be another smartphone or tablet.
  • When replacing your smartphone or tablet, try to keep access to your old device if possible, as you may need to approve an MFA request while setting up the new one.

FAQ

If you have another device, we strongly encourage you to set it up as your backup authentication method in case your primary authentication method is not available to you.

Having a backup device will allow you to use MFA on another phone or tablet and will ensure you are able to access your applications and systems.

You can add an additional device by navigating to the MFA Setup.

  • Even if someone gets your password, MFA helps stop them from accessing your account.
  • MFA helps protect your personal information and La Trobe’s intellectual property.
  • Cybersecurity is a global issue. MFA is one of the best ways to prevent unauthorised access.

When logging into selected La Trobe systems and applications, you will be prompted to verify your identity via the Microsoft Authenticator Application installed on your smartphone.

This verification process on your smartphone is in addition to your username and password on your device that you use to access La Trobe applications.

You will be asked to verify who you are when you open a Microsoft application for the first time or use a device you have not used before.

The Microsoft Authentication application will not have any access to any personal information (such as bank details, passwords, photos, messages, calls or browsing history) on your smartphone.

Contact us for assistance.

If you have gotten a new phone and the previous one is still working as an Authenticator, you can set up the new one by navigating to the MFA Setup directly.

Then, you can remove your previous device as an Authenticator from your MFA device list.

If you have lost/broken/reset your phone or your authenticator is otherwise not available, please contact Student IT Support for assistance with resetting your MFA for your student account.

It depends on your access circumstance. Change of location, laptop, or PC may trigger an MFA challenge.

If you are accessing from the same location and device, then you may not be asked every time.

Yes, MFA will work regardless. There is no action required from you.

Yes. To change your default authentication device/method:

  1. Login to Microsoft My Account. You will need to do this on a computer, not a phone.
  2. Click Update Info under the Security Info section of the page.
  3. Click Change next to Default Sign-in method and follow the prompts to change your authentication method.

You can still use the Authenticator app when you are not connected to the internet or outside of Australia. Open the Authenticator app and select 'La Trobe University' to find a 6-digit code. Use this code instead to verify your identity.