Important upcoming changes to multi-factor authentication

Dear students, staff and faculty, The University of Manitoba would like to share information regarding Microsoft’s upcoming changes to multi-factor authentication (MFA), which are intended to strengthen account security and reduce the risk of phishing attacks. Microsoft has announced that it will begin retiring its built-in SMS text message and voice call verification options. Beginning September 1, 2026, people who use SMS text message or voice call verification for MFA may see prompts asking them to register a more secure authentication method, such as:

* Microsoft Authenticatorhttps://umanitoba.ca/information-services-technology/my-security/set-up-mfa#getting-started * Passkeys – To add a passkey, go to mysignins.microsoft.com/security-infohttps://mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info → click "Add sign-in method" → select "Passkey" and follow the steps. * Hardware security keyshttps://umanitoba.ca/information-services-technology/my-security/request-token-mfa – OTP (one-time password) key fobs for example or any which are FIDO (Fast Identity Online)-compliant

No immediate action is required. SMS and voice-based MFA will continue to work for now. However, if you are not already using one of these authentication methods, Information Services and Technology recommends registering for a more secure option as soon as Microsoft prompts you to do so. This will help ensure a smooth transition and improve the security of your university account.

IST is currently reviewing Microsoft’s changes and assessing options to support our community members. More information will be shared as decisions are finalized.

If you need help with MFA or registering a new authentication method, contact the IST Service Deskhttps://umanitoba.ca/information-services-technology/#contact-us.

Thank you for helping keep University accounts secure.

IST Service Desk Information Services & Technology University of Manitoba 123 Fletcher Argue 230 Neil John MacLean Library 204-474-8600 Servicedesk@umanitoba.ca