Changes coming to Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication

IT Services are preparing for upcoming changes to Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) that Microsoft will introduce from early 2027.

SMS text messages and voice calls will no longer be available as authentication options. These are among the most vulnerable authentication methods available and provide significantly weaker protection against phishing and account compromise.

All staff and students who currently use these methods will need to transition to the Microsoft Authenticator app, and from December SMS and voice calls will no longer work.

We recommend making this change at the earliest opportunity to ensure uninterrupted access to LJMU services and resources.

Notifications to SMS and voice call users

During November, users authenticating with SMS and voice will be notified to switch to the app as part of our campaign to move users across.

Help and guidance

You can find guidance of how to switch to the app in the following knowledge article and if you have any issues or queries, please contact the IT Services helpdesk via LJMU Assist or by calling 0151 231 5555. Students can also get IT help on the upper ground floor of the Student Life Building. 

Drop-in sessions will also be available later in the year across campus providing staff and students with face-to-face assistance.

More about MFA

MFA enhances the security of our IT accounts by asking you to confirm a combination of something you know (such as your password) and something you have (such as a phone app or fingerprint/face ID) before permitting access.

Multi-Factor Authentication at LJMU