Set up Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) with a Phone Number

Summary

Steps to set up an authentication phone number (call or text) for multi-factor authentication (MFA). 

Information Applies to

Faculty, Staff, Current Students, New Students, Alumnus, Retirees

Set up Authentication Phone Number

Using the Microsoft Authenticator app is the preferred MFA method. It is more secure than using a phone call or text message.

You will need both access to the phone and a computer to complete the setup.

1. On your computer
   • Browse to the Microsoft Security Info page at https://aka.ms/mfasetup
     • You can also go to your Winona State email.
   • Sign in with your username and StarID password.
     • Student username: StarID@go.minnstate.edu
     • Employee username: StarID@minnstate.edu
   • Click Next on the prompt "More information required."

2. On the "Keep your account secure" page.
   • Use the link at the bottom of the window "I want to set up a different method."

3. Under Choose a different method, select Phone and Select Confirm.

4. Enter your phone number and select either "Text me a code" or "Call me" and select Next.

• If you selected "Call me," you will receive a phone call. 
  • After a brief message, you will press "#" to approve the sign in.
• If you selected "Text me a code," you will receive a text message with a 6-digit code.
  • Enter the code sent in a text message to your phone. Select Next.

5. The phone is now verified. Select Next.

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6. On the "Success!" page, Select Done.

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7. You may see a prompt to "Stay signed in?" on the computer. If you are a personal computer that you have an account on, that only you use, select Yes. If not, select No. 

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Security Information

What should I do when I get a verification request I don’t recognize?

If you receive approval requests for access to your Microsoft 365 (M365) and you are not actively signing in to Minnesota State M365 connected applications, in other words you did not just attempt to log in to your M365 account using your Minnesota State M365 log in credentials then you will not have a number to enter into the app. 

Stay Vigilant:

• You will not be prompted by MFA without your attempt to log in. MFA verification will never prompt you first. Do not approve or take action on any prompts if you are not logging into your account.
• No one, including Winona State Tech Support and Minnesota State, or other entities which may appear to be related, will ever contact or prompt you to ask you to “approve” an MFA notification or ask for a verification code with you initiating the log in.   
• Do not press # key for verification or enter verification code if you receive a voice call on your mobile device, office, or alternate phone. Ensure your spouse or trusted family doesn’t automatically enter the key(s) without checking with you first.

Related Articles

What is: Multifactor Authentication

Microsoft 365 Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Set up Microsoft Authenticator App - Android Device

Set up Microsoft Authenticator App - Apple/iOS Devices

Updating Multi-Factor Authentication Settings for Microsoft 365

Learn More

Need additional information or assistance? Contact WSU Tech Support by email or call 507.457.5240, option 1.

Need additional information or assistance? Contact WSU TLT by email, phone (507.457.5240, option 3), or Zoom.

Need additional information or assistance? Visit the Digital Learning Commons in Library 105.